Tucker Paving’s array of services—underground utilities, hauling, earthworks, and concrete and asphalt—means we have an array of construction equipment that is being used on jobsites all over Central Florida every day. In our 30 years in the construction industry, we’ve learned that training operators on their equipment is one of the best ways to avoid injuries and accidents. See the “Best Practices” we utilize to keep workers safe, maximize the work being done, and protect our equipment assets.

Best Practices for Training Equipment Operators

Tucker Paving utilizes a wide array of heavy construction equipment, including excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, forklifts, mixers, and asphalt equipment. OSHA doesn’t have a certification for heavy equipment operators, but it does require operators to be trained, certified/licensed, and evaluated in identifying and avoiding safety hazards. Training should occur when you have new employees, new equipment, after an incident, or if an upcoming job will require new or specialized operation of the equipment.

Training will be the most effective if you:

  • Present Hands-On Training. Few people enjoy or truly learn from watching a video and then taking a quiz on the video. Get your trainees out with the equipment to let them benefit from hands-on learning.
  • Keep it Real. Utilize scenarios and examples that the trainees will actually face when operating the machinery.
  • Use Peer Training. Utilize seasoned employees to add authentic dialogue to the training; your experienced employees are a wealth of knowledge!
  • Train in Native Languages. If you have employees who speak a language other than English as their first language, make sure they get training in their native language.
  • Make it Entertaining. Few people, no matter their age, enjoy sitting for hours and listening to someone giving a lecture. Make trainings fun with ice breakers, games, group activities, movement, conversation, and prizes. A brain that is relaxed and in a good mood is one that is ready to learn and commit the learning to long-term memory.

At Tucker Paving, we have three decades in the asphalt and concrete paving industry, and safety has always been—and will always be—our first priority on a worksite. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or use our contact form online, to inquire about your next project!