Backhoe Loader - Operation and Safety

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

• Identify and understand backhoe loader features, functions, and major components.
• Understand key safety topics related to pre-use inspection and start up and shut down.
• Understand the steps for safe, efficient, and productive digging, loading, and backfilling.

Course Content

Lesson 1: Introduction

• Review the content of the entire course.
• Overview of a backhoe loader and basic safety.

Lesson 2: Getting to Know Your Backhoe Loader

• Identify important components and controls of the backhoe loader and what they do.
• Discuss warning signals and their meaning.

Lesson 3: Pre-use and Post-use Inspection

• Explain the importance of completing and what to look for during a pre-use inspection.
• Identify the main areas of the backhoe that must be inspected before and after use.
• Recognize the importance of wearing personal protective equipment.
• Discuss the importance of reporting defects found and logging issues.

Lesson 4: Machine Operation

• Identify risks to watch for during operation.
• Demonstrate safe pre-start procedures.
• Perform proper starting procedures.
• Prepare to operate the machine safely.
• Examine the locations and ways to safely park the machine.
• Identify proper ways to shut down the machine.

Lesson 5: Loader Operation

• Identify proper ways to load from stockpiles.
• Recognize how to spot trucks for efficient loading.
• Examine how to dig with the loader.
• Discuss the best way to create stockpiles.

• Identify the proper way to backfill and work around trenches.

Lesson 6: Backhoe Operation

• Identify the backhoe loader's set-up techniques.
• Understand digging with the backhoe.
• Know how to deposit material with the backhoe.

• Understand how to backfill with the backhoe.

Final Exam – 27 question exam with incorrect response feedback