Snowblower Safety Training & Certification
Hard Hat Training courses meet all training requirements set by OSHA and Canada.
We Offer Three Types of Snowblower Safety Trainings
Our regulation-aligned Snowblower certification courses are updated to reflect the most recent changes made to safety standards. Whether you want a certification in as little as two hours, or a more robust training, we can help! We offer online trainings that can be completed in a day, DIY training kits that provide training materials, Train the Trainer certifications that certify individuals to train others and provide training materials, or onsite training. No matter what you choose, we can get you what you want, at a price you can afford.
Online Training
Online training is for those who prefer self-paced training from any location and/or for employers who need to assign and monitor employee training progress and exam scores.
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Training Kits
The training kit is for those who want the freedom of doing the training themselves. It is an PowerPoint Presentation (PPT) that you can present yourself to a group of trainees.
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Train the Trainer
Train the Trainer courses are online and meant to certify a individual to use the training kit to train others. Training kit and materials are included with the Train the Trainer online course for no additional cost.
Purchase OptionsWhat’s in the Snowblower Training Course?
Our snowblower training course is OSHA Aligned, and our online version fulfills OSHA’s classroom training requirement. This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. In addition to the written exam, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam as required by OSHA.
Course Outline:
- Key-Off Inspections
- Key-On Inspections
Course Goals:
- Understand the importance of snowblowers and how it affects you
- Learn how to maintain your machine
- Learn safe practices for operating a snowblower
Estimated Training Length: Because everyone learns and progresses at different speeds, the amount of time you spend taking this training will vary. However, the estimated time for this training is 1.5 – 2 hours.
Intended Audience:
- Employees
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For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!
View Purchase OptionsSnowblower Certification Standards
U.S. Standards
Canada Standards
Train the Trainer Certification
The Train the Trainer option is used to certify a trainer to teach others using the included training kit. It incorporates the online course with an additional train the trainer module, as well as the training kit. This option results in an regulation-aligned lifetime trainer certification from Hard Hat Training. This certification is not company-specific, meaning you can take it with you should you change employers.
Why Do I Need Snowblower Safety Training?
In line with regulations, anyone who operates a snowblower must receive training prior to operating the machine on their own. Requirements for refresher training related to forklifts or other processes are very specific. Most other equipment doesn’t have such specific requirements, but it’s wise to follow the same guidelines.
When it comes to refresher training, the standards in some instances (like forklifts) are very specific: operators must be re-evaluated every three years to see if they are still competent to operate the equipment. Best practices say to apply this same rule to all types of equipment. A so-called “free-pass” cannot be awarded based on experience, age, or time on the job. The extent of the evaluation is to be determined by the employer, but should include a written and practical examination that prove continued competency.
Stay Informed On All Things Snowblower
Did You Know?
While many refer to all snow removal devices as snowblowers, this is inaccurate. Only machines with impellers to help eject the snow through the discharge chute are actually snowblowers. Machines that only have an auger and no impeller are considered snow throwers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2014, over 42,000 workers were injured slipping on ice, sleet, or snow. These injuries resulted in one or more days taken off work for each employee.
Forbes listed snowblowers as one of the 10 most dangerous power tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are snowblowers dangerous?
Yes. As helpful as these machines are, snowblowers can shoot out rocks, ice, and other debris that can be extremely dangerous to those around the machine. Always operate snowblowers with caution.
Do I need to wear hearing protection when using a snowblower?
It is recommended that you wear hearing protection when using a snowblower. Alternatively, you can only operate in short bursts. Snowblowers can make up to 90 dB of noise, which can damage your hearing over time.
How do you clear out your snowblower if it gets blocked up?
If you need to clear a blockage in your snowblower, you need to use specified tools to do so. Never use your bare hands to clear a blockage. Doing so could cause severe cuts or even cause your hand or arm to get caught in the machine.
What other hazards are present during snowblower operations?
Aside from the hazards that the machine directly causes, you may also encounter carbon monoxide emissions from the machine. There are also the dangers of the cold itself. Always dress for the weather and ensure the area you are operating in is properly ventilated.
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For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!
View Purchase Options