Back-to-School Training Isn’t Just for Kids
While fall job tasks might not be new to you, chances are you can still learn something from a refresher course. And if you’re new to seasonal tasks, the best way to do them safely is to learn how to do them properly. Be a kid again and put some learning into your fall!
“Refresher courses are one of the best investments your agency can make in supervisors and staff,” says Bill Hooker, PDRMA Training Program Supervisor. “Fall job tasks can include clearing brush, trimming trees, moving items into storage, repairing trails and playgrounds and getting equipment ready for winter weather — and that’s not the complete list. It’s worth taking some time to learn and brush up on best practices before the season gets into full swing.” Take a few minutes to visit the PDRMA Training Calendar to register for September and October classes.
WOOD CHIPPERS
 The blades used in wood chippers and shredders slice through wood like butter, and the engines are powerful enough to grind entire branches. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 39 people died in chipper accidents between 1996 and 2005. The vast majority — 78 percent — resulted from being caught in the chipper, and most of the rest were "struck-by" accidents. It is very important for operators to review the manufacturer’s equipment operating manual and to receive training on the start-up, operation and shut-down procedures, safety features and personal protective equipment requirements for the specific equipment they will operate. Take advantage of these PDRMA classes to improve chipper safety at your agency:
SEPT. 17 — Brush Chipper Operations: Train the Trainer — This class trains those responsible for providing brush chipper training programs to agency staff. This eight-hour session, which includes both classroom and hands-on practice, covers everything a trainer should focus on, from the 30 Second Site Safety Walk Through to proper ergonomics, material handling, personal protective equipment and safe operation of a wood chipper.
SEPT. 18 & 20 — Creating a Safe Worksite for Brush Chipper Operations — Anyone who uses a wood chipper will benefit from this half-day class that provides the opportunity for hands-on practice. It also discusses ergonomics, debris and materials handling, body mechanics and includes a thorough review of the operations manual, chipper controls and safety features.
TRAILER OPERATIONS
 Park operations and special event staff need these “work horses” to move equipment, materials and supplies, but a trailer is different (and more complex) than any other vehicle. They require extra stopping room, forethought when making turns and backing up, specific ways to secure loads and knowledge of dozens of other details for safe operation.
OCT. 4 — Safe Operation and Towing of a Trailer — Our half-day training session uses classroom and hands-on demonstrations to teach safe operation of this uniquely challenging vehicle. The class addresses trailer operation, hooking it up, securing loads properly, gate safety, spotting and hand signals and much more.
PDRMA Resources:
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