Prepare and operate a tractor

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.

1. assess the risks associated with the required activity
2. wear suitable clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE)
3. prepare the tractor by carrying out pre-start checks and adjustments in accordance with relevant legislation, instructions and specifications, including all safety guards
4. confirm that the tractor is safe and ready for use
5. mount and dismount the tractor safely
6. check and adjust the operator environment to meet your personal requirements
7. check the immediate area for hazards and obstacles before moving off, and at all times during the operation of the tractor
8. use the correct warning signals at all times
9. operate and manoeuvre the tractor safely in accordance with the type of tractor and the operation being carried out
10. modify operating techniques to take account of changes in weather, ground conditions and types of terrain
11. use efficiency factors to maintain the efficiency of tractor performance through appropriate handling and maintenance
12. stop and isolate the tractor on completion of the activity
13. leave the tractor secure after use and in the correct condition for future use
14. maintain communication with colleagues and others involved in, or affected by, your work
15. follow industry and business guidance to minimise environmental damage
16. carry out your work in accordance with relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, risk assessment requirements, codes of practice and business policies

1. how to identify hazards and assess risks
2. the type of clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable for the activity
3. the current legislation in relation to the preparation and operation of tractors
4. how to prepare the tractor by carrying out the required pre-start checks and adjustments
5. how to mount and dismount the tractor safely
6. how to start and stop the tractor safely
7. the function of all controls and instruments on the tractor you are using
8. the correct use of warning signals and indicators
9. 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
10. the capabilities and limitations of the tractor and operator, and factors that may affect safety and efficiency
11. the types of hazards and obstacles that may be encountered when operating a tractor and how these should be dealt with
12. the sort of problems that may occur with the tractor, how to recognise them and the action to take
13. the importance of carrying out routine checks and maintenance to confirm that the tractor remains safe and in good working order
14. the reasons why the tractor should be left in the correct condition for future use
15. why it is important to maintain the safety and security of the tractor at all times
16. the importance of maintaining communication with those involved in, or affected by, your work and how this should be done
17. the potential impact that your activities could have on the environment and ways in which this can be minimised
18. your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, codes of practice and business policies

Efficiency factors:

• gears
• hydraulics
• tyre pressure
• counter balance
• ballasting
• engine revs

Ground conditions:

• wet
• dry
• frost
• ice
• mud
• loose ground

Instructions and specifications:

• drawings
• schedules
• method statements
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• manufacturer's guidelines
• customer requirements
• verbal instructions

Operator environment:

• seat
• steering wheel
• steering column
• mirrors
• seat belt
• climate
• visibility
• loose items secured

Pre-start checks:

• fuel
• electrics
• tyres
• hoses
• fluids
• lubrication

Terrain:

• hard surfaces
• soft surfaces
• uneven surfaces
• slopes

LANCS57 Prepare and operate a tractor with attachments

LANCS9 Prepare and operate a powered vehicle