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Yard Truck Training & Certification
Hard Hat Training courses meet all training requirements set by OSHA and Canada.
We Offer Four Types of Yard Truck Safety Trainings
Our regulation-aligned Yard Truck 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.
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Video + Kit Training
Our video trainings come with training videos and kit training presentation. This is a great option for any business that would like to certify its employees by using a video.
Purchase OptionsWhat’s in the Yard Truck Training Course?
Our Yard Truck (Terminal Tractor) training course is regulation aligned, and our online version fulfills classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on the basic anatomy and pre-shift inspection of the machine; Safe Operations; Common Hazards; and Case Studies.
During this presentation, we will look at the functionality and components of a yard truck. We’ll also show you why it’s important to conduct a thorough pre-shift inspection before using the equipment. We also discuss several components of safely operating a yard truck, including how to safely couple and uncouple a trailer; how to safely transport a trailer; and how to successfully spot or part a trailer. The course also goes over what kind of PPE should be worn while operating a yard truck. And finally, we touch on some of the more common hazards associated with yard trucks and discuss how to recognize, avoid, or minimize them.
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.
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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 OptionsYard Truck 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 Yard Truck Safety Training?
In line with regulations, anyone who operates a yard truck 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 Yard Truck
Did You Know?
According to OSHA, struck-by vehicles incidents account for just under 100 construction worker deaths each year.
Incidents involving powered industrial trucks are #7 on OSHA’s Top 10 standards violated list.
In The News
Yard Truck Safety Training Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Yard Truck?
In the United States, a yard truck is also known as a shunt truck, spotter truck, spotting tractor, terminal tractor, yard shifter, yard dog, yard goat, yard horse, yard bird, yard jockey, or mule. It is a semi-tractor intended to move semi trailers within a cargo yard or intermodal facility, much like a switcher locomotive is used to position railcars.
Do you need a CDL to drive a Yard Dog (Yard Truck)?
A CDL isn’t required for operators who are operating a Yard Dog, as long as they are ONLY operating on private property or within a facility. However, most trucking companies do prefer you have a CDL, a driver’s license, a high school diploma (or GED), and a clean driving record.
My trainee scored 80% on the exam. Did he pass or fail?
Contrary to popular belief, OSHA does not dictate what a passing score entails. That is ultimately up to the employer whose responsibility it is to certify, or authorize, their employee. If you want to pass him at 80%, fine. But what if a question or two among the 20% missed could lead to an accident or death? Is it worth it? Our recommendation is that you always go over any missed questions with your trainees—even if they just missed one. Once they understand the principle missed, have them write their initials by the correct answer. That way, you are protecting them and those around them from potential accidents in the future.
See Purchase Options
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