ATV/UTV Online Training

Description

What’s in the ATV/UTV Course?

This training course is OSHA-aligned and covers OSHA’s classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on equipment and anatomy, maintenance and inspections, safe operations and stability, common hazards, and more. This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, you will have immediate online access to your certificate of completion. You have the option to download the practical evaluations for the specific course. Although the practical evaluation is not a required part of the online course, we strongly recommend completing it under the supervision of your employer to ensure your mastery of the safety training topics.

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 90 – 120 min.

Intended Audience:

• Employees
• Supervisors

This course covers the following OSHA standards:

• OSH Act of 1970 – General Duty Clause
• 29 CFR 1926.21 – Training and Education
• ANSI/SVIA 1-2017 – Consumer Product Safety Standard for Four Wheel All-Terrain Vehicle Equipment Configuration

Why Take the Online ATV/UTV Safety Training

Our online training course provides a substantial, thorough, and effective way to learn how to work safely. We’ve been providing industry-specific safety training solutions for individuals, safety managers, and business owners for over 15 years.

The online course meets the classroom requirement for occupational safety training. It also includes a proficiency checklist that employers can use to perform a practical evaluation, in accordance with standards and regulations.

We have fine-tuned this training to provide you with the best experience possible. Our robust training approach gives an interactive experience that helps learners retain information and apply it on the job site, preventing costly accidents and fines. Safety training is an investment. That is why hundreds of companies and individuals all over the world trust the Hard Hat Training Series for their online training needs.

Why Buy Our ATV/UTV Training

• Complete Training: First and foremost our goal is to keep you safe and save you money. Don't risk getting expensive OSHA fines because you settled for a sub-par training program that didn't cover safety topics in depth. Train using a program that helps you retain what is learned so that it is put into practice on job sites.
• Cost-Effective: Hiring a trainer to come on-site can be expensive. In contrast, our online curriculum lowers costs while still providing a professional training experience.
• Records Tracking System: We offer an easy-to-use management system so that if you have multiple students who are receiving the training you can have access to all records, all-terrain certificates, observation guides and more! (contact us if you would like us to quickly create a company account for you)
• Train Your Way: You can use this online training program for new hire training, refresher training or train remotely. Access it from anywhere and work on your schedule.
• Interactive Learning: Special reminders and quiz questions throughout the course prep students for the final exam so that it is passed the first time.
• Corporate License: Do you want to host this course on your own server? Contact us about obtaining broadcasting rights for this and any of our other online courses.

UTV Driving Course

UTVs may look like ATVs, but UTVs are more equipped to handle labor. UTVs have larger engines and more durable hulls. In order to stay safe while driving a UTV, always wear safety gear, including helmets, goggles, boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves. The best way to make sure drivers and riders avoid injury or death is to take a safety training.

What Is the Difference Between a UTV and an ATV? 

ATVs are typically designed for a single rider to go off-roading. An ATV that is bigger in size and built to carry more passengers or heavier objects is a utility task vehicle (UTV). While UTVs are often used for business purposes like farming and gardening, ATVs are generally used recreationally. 

ATVs can typically turn more sharply and are more compact. With four-wheel drive (4WD), you can maneuver over difficult terrain and narrow routes with ease. ATVs can be less expensive than UTVs. ATVs are undoubtedly fun, but they’re not the safest vehicles. Common safety measures present in cars and UTVs are absent from these vehicles. A passenger won’t be able to ride along unless you buy an ATV with a passenger seat.

UTVs are the workhorses of ATVs. They are more capable than regular four-wheelers and feature larger engines and more durable bodies. UTVs accommodate passengers. The cost of owning a UTV is its biggest disadvantage. Since they are more durable and appropriate for carrying, UTVs cost much more than ATVs.

Is It Better To Buy an ATV or a UTV?

The decision between a UTV and an ATV is entirely yours. Consider your wants and needs and your budget. Whatever option you choose, stay safe and protect yourself. Before every driving your ATV or UTV, make sure you have been properly trained and certified.

UTV Driving Course

ATVs, dirt motorcycles, 4-wheel drive trucks, SUVs, and UTVs are just a few of the many types of vehicles that fall under the umbrella term “off-road vehicles.” At Hard Hat Training, we understand the importance of keeping yourself and your team safe. Participants in our ATV/UTV Training Course will learn:

• ATV and UTV’s operating systems
• Regular operational dangers
• Risk management
• Incident reporting procedures
• Pre-ride and post-ride inspections
• Driving in adverse conditions
• Responsibly operating a vehicle 
• Loading and winching
• Driving safely after loading it
• Correct storage techniques
• Routine maintenance techniques

This ATV/UTV Training Online Course will teach you how to operate and control your ATV/UTV safely. This curriculum also discusses the hazards associated with ATV/UTV operating, as well as hazard control and recommended operational techniques.

Operator Training 

To operate a UTV safely, the operator must follow the same safe work habits as with tractors, skid steer loaders, and ATVs. Before operating a machine, a safe and successful driver should become acquainted with it. This can be accomplished by reading the owner’s manual and following the safety labels on the vehicle. Here are some additional safety precautions to take when driving a UTV:

• Always keep your legs and arms inside the vehicle. 
• To avoid an overturn, drive slowly and turn smoothly.
• Drive completely up or down a slope or hill before turning. Turning the UTV in the middle of a slope or hill increases the likelihood of overturning.
• On tough terrain, use the proper speed.
• Keep away from ditches and embankments. 
• Ensure that all passengers are tall enough to reach the handholds while sitting with their backs to the seat and their feet flat on the floorboards.
• Each passenger must ride only in his or her own seat on the UTV.
• Operators must back up slowly. Before backing up, keep an eye out for children.
• Operators must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Because a UTV is used for hauling, additional care should be taken to ensure cargo or material is properly secured during transit.

Because UTVs are frequently used to tow equipment, it is critical to observe safe towing techniques. To ensure the best traction for driving and stopping when towing a load, make sure the cargo box is loaded. Tow the cargo at a slow enough speed to maintain control. Remember that the stopping distance of a towed load rises with speed and weight. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for towing weight restrictions.

Use the UTV as intended, as you should with all equipment. Following the advised safety procedures provide a more pleasant experience for both driver and passenger as utility vehicles are tools, not toys.

UTV Safety 

UTVs are also called side-by-sides, utility-terrain vehicles, or utility-task vehicles. While UTVs may look like both an ATV and a Jeep, they don’t drive like either. The list below details some best safety practices you should follow:

1. Never drive after drinking. Drinking decreases your judgment and reaction speed. Drugs may also impair your ability to drive. Maintain composure and abstain from endangering anyone or yourself.
2. Read the user’s manual. It’s best to always keep it with you in the UTV as a reference. Reading the warning labels is another method to get acquainted with the UTV. They are there to warn of potential risks and provide advice on how to prevent them.
3. Perform a pre-ride check. Before you go, inspect the tires. Also, check your gasoline level to determine when you need to refuel. Take a quick walk around the vehicle to check for any potential problems.
4. Wear safety gear at all times, including certified helmets, goggles, over-the-ankle boots, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and gloves. Another thing you should think about is wearing a protective suit. It’s a smart safety measure, especially if you’re traveling alone.
5. Everyone in the UTV must buckle up, even if you aren’t traveling very far. This is the law in several states. Many UTV accidents include rollovers, and in some cases, occupants have been thrown from their seats.
6. Practice driving at a safe speed, handling turns, and getting used to how the vehicle rides on trails. Make sure the driver, if a teen, is being watched over.
7. Never load a UTV with more people than it was intended to hold. Make sure everyone keeps their limbs within the vehicle. In order for passengers to hold on, there should be handlebars. If a passenger cannot reach the handles, they should not be riding. Drivers should lock the doors and secure all the passengers.
8. To avoid crashes, stay on the trail. The majority of off-road vehicles’ tires are designed to remain off the road. UTVs will handle differently because they weren’t designed for paved roads. If you must cross a road, be sure no automobiles are coming from either direction and go slowly.
9. Avoid riding alone in case the vehicle breaks down or you get hurt.Take extra precautions and prepare yourself if you are riding alone. You should be vigilant and aware while riding. There can be riders out there who fail to pay attention to their surroundings. Be aware of your boundaries and avoid unsafe maneuvers .
10. Attend safety training if you plan to drive a UTV. Although most people learn best through hands-on experience, online courses are also offered. Most states require anyone under 16 to pass a safety course before they can drive a UTV.

 Before allowing someone else to operate your UTV, make sure they are properly trained or certified. Go over the important safety precautions with them and explain their significance. Assure them that they understand the distinctions between operating an on-road vehicle and an off-road vehicle. The following sections describe some things you should consider before anyone drives a UTV. 

Tips for a New UTV Driver

Don’t Be Reckless – There is something about UTV that makes everyone who gets in one immediately wants to start doing donuts. In a tall machine with active long-travel suspension, that’s not a good idea. It is an excellent way for landing your UTV on its side. Reckless driving and collisions make up approximately 16% of the deaths involving UTVs.

Be Prepared – On any trail, you may see people who are broken down. To avoid being something for rubbernecks to look at, put together a tool kits. You must be able to change a flat tire or change a CVT belt. You never want to be caught off guard. Don’t forget a first-aid kit.

Wear Safety Gear – Drivers should wear a helmet and eye protection at all times. In California, for example, the law requires drivers to wear a helmet. When visiting states where helmets aren’t required, not enough people are wearing them. Eye protection, long sleeves, gloves, and ankle-high boots are also required by law in certain states.

Learn and Observe Trail Etiquette – Stay on designated trails, move slowly around campgrounds, and avoid driving your vehicle into blind corners. Signal to approaching cars to show them how many people are in your group. Know what is expected of you on the route. Avoid being a nuisance in your riding area. Have all the necessary documentation, flags, exhaust, and stickers for your riding area.

Invest in Safety – Your safety is your first priority. Make sure you are outfitted with a proper helmet, five-point seat belts, a roof, doors, and any other necessary equipment. A machine that is properly maintained and operating also contributes to safety. 

Drive in a Group – Bring at least one other rider with you when you travel. It may be safe to ride alone if you are in a well-traveled location with lots of other enthusiasts, but try to join a group. 

Tire Pressure Is Important – Tire pressure is important for all vehicles, but it is especially vital for UTV safety and performance.  Tire-pressure data should be available for your equipment, and the factory obtains such data through testing. Follow all manufacturer suggestions. 

How Safety Courses Benefit You 

In 2020, it was reported that Off-Highway Vehicles (OVHs), such as UTVs, accounted for 2,210 deaths over the course of three years. When it comes to OVH accidents, 16% of those deaths are children.  

Rollover accidents are the main reason for OVH-related deaths. A recent study found that rollovers on level ground typically happen when a driver tries to make a sharp turn too quickly. Forward and backward overturns can happen as a vehicle is descending or ascending a steep slope. Rollovers using UTVs are particularly dangerous and are responsible for about one in five of UTV-related fatalities.

Another common reason for OHV deaths was collisions, be it with other vehicles or stationary objects like trees, people, or animals. Collisions are to blame for about 16% of UTV-related deaths. About 80% of UTV accident deaths involved passengers who were partially or completely ejected from the vehicle.

Many people wrongly assume that UTVs are just as safe as conventional cars due to their windshields, side-by-side seating, and steering wheels. But since they lack the stability and safety safeguards found in traditional cars, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Because of this, even a seemingly little accident may end in serious, disastrous, or even fatal injuries.

• Head Trauma: By far, traumatic brain injuries and concussions are the most frequent injuries associated with UTV and other OVH accidents.
• Broken Bones: If ejected from a UTV or if the vehicle rolls on top of them, riders may suffer arm and leg fractures as well as a broken collar bone.
• Back, Neck, and Spinal Cord Injuries: Drivers who are thrown from a UTV may get serious spinal cord injuries which could result in complete or partial paralysis. If someone has been ejected from a UTV or other OHV, you shouldn’t move them or try to move them, especially if they say their back or neck hurts.
• Internal Bleeding: An accident’s impact could seriously harm internal organs and result in internal bleeding. Even if drivers don’t seem to be injured, it’s a good idea to seek medical assistance after any OHV accident because these kinds of injuries aren’t always obvious right away.
• Burns: Gasoline will leak or pour out of a UTV if its fuel line bursts in a collision. If the fuel comes into contact with an ignition source and starts to burn, drivers and their passengers could sustain horrible burns.

With such horrible and lasting injuries, the benefit of safety training cannot be overstated. While we cannot promise that no accidents will ever happen, safety training does equip drivers and their passengers with the proper tools and processes to make sure everyone comes back in one piece.