Prepare and operate a tractor
Overview
This standard covers the preparation and operation of a tractor. The standard covers the use of tractors in a variety of weather conditions, ground conditions and terrain. These conditions will have an impact on the handling and use of the tractor. When working with machinery or equipment you should be trained and hold current certification, where required. When using a tractor on the public highway you must hold the relevant licences for both yourself and the tractor. When carrying out your work you must consider the impact it will have on the environment. This standard is suitable for those who operate a tractor on or off the public highway.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
assess the risks associated with the required activity
wear suitable clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE)
prepare the tractor by carrying out pre-start checks and
adjustments in accordance with relevant legislation, instructions
and specifications, including all safety guards
confirm that the tractor is safe and ready for use
mount and dismount the tractor safely
check and adjust the operator environment to meet your
personal requirements
- check the immediate area for hazards and obstacles before
moving off, and at all times during the operation of the tractor
use the correct warning signals at all times
operate and manoeuvre the tractor safely in accordance with the
type of tractor and the operation being carried out
- modify operating techniques to take account of changes in
weather, ground conditions and types of terrain
- use efficiency factors to maintain the efficiency of tractor
performance through appropriate handling and maintenance
stop and isolate the tractor on completion of the activity
leave the tractor secure after use and in the correct condition for
future use
- maintain communication with colleagues and others involved in,
or affected by, your work
- follow industry and business guidance to minimise environmental
damage
- carry out your work in accordance with relevant environmental
and health and safety legislation, risk assessment requirements,
codes of practice and business policies
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
how to identify hazards and assess risks
- the type of clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE)
suitable for the activity
- the current legislation in relation to the preparation and operation
of tractors
- how to prepare the tractor by carrying out the required pre-start
checks and adjustments
how to mount and dismount the tractor safely
how to start and stop the tractor safely
the function of all controls and instruments on the tractor you are
using
the correct use of warning signals and indicators
the ways in which the tractor should be operated and
manoeuvred, and how different weather, ground conditions and
types of terrain must be taken into account
- the capabilities and limitations of the tractor and operator, and
factors that may affect safety and efficiency
- the types of hazards and obstacles that may be encountered
when operating a tractor and how these should be dealt with
- the sort of problems that may occur with the tractor, how to
recognise them and the action to take
- the importance of carrying out routine checks and maintenance to
confirm that the tractor remains safe and in good working order
- the reasons why the tractor should be left in the correct condition
for future use
- why it is important to maintain the safety and security of the
tractor at all times
- the importance of maintaining communication with those involved
in, or affected by, your work and how this should be done
- the potential impact that your activities could have on the
environment and ways in which this can be minimised
- your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and
safety legislation, codes of practice and business policies
Scope/range
Scope Performance
Scope Knowledge
Values
Behaviours
Skills
Glossary
Efficiency factors:
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gears
hydraulics
tyre pressure
counter balance
ballasting
engine revs
Ground conditions:
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wet
dry
frost
ice
mud
loose ground
Instructions and specifications:
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drawings
schedules
method statements
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
manufacturer's guidelines
customer requirements
verbal instructions
Operator environment:
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seat
steering wheel
steering column
mirrors
seat belt
climate
visibility
loose items secured
Pre-start checks:
• fuel
Links To Other NOS
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electrics
tyres
hoses
fluids
lubrication
Terrain:
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hard surfaces
soft surfaces
uneven surfaces
slopes
LANCS57 Prepare and operate a tractor with attachments
LANCS9 Prepare and operate a powered vehicle