Arboriculture, Grounds Maintenance, Landscaping and Building, Plant & Machinery
This course is designed for individuals who are required to operate rotary and flail ride-on mowers within grounds maintenance, estate management, horticulture, agriculture, amenity, local authority and commercial land-based environments.
The programme provides learners with the knowledge, practical skills and operational competence required to safely inspect, prepare, operate, maintain and store rotary and flail ride-on mowers. Learners will develop an understanding of machine controls, operating principles, risk management, safe working practices, machine adjustments, mowing techniques, routine maintenance requirements and environmental responsibilities associated with ride-on mower operations.
The course combines tutor-led theory, practical hands-on learning and workplace-based scenarios to develop competence in machine operation across a range of operational conditions. Emphasis is placed upon hazard identification, risk assessment, machine stability, operator safety, third-party protection and the achievement of effective mowing outcomes in accordance with manufacturer instructions and organisational requirements.
Ride-on mowing equipment is widely used across land-based industries to improve efficiency and productivity. However, incorrect machine selection, inadequate operator competence, poor maintenance practices or failure to implement safe systems of work can result in injury, equipment damage, environmental harm and reduced operational effectiveness. This course therefore supports the development of competent operators capable of working safely and effectively within their area of responsibility.
Relevant legislation includes, but is not limited to:
1. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
2. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
3. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
4. Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended)
5. Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005
6. Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005
7. Environmental Protection Act 1990
8. Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (where applicable)
9. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR)
10. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)
11. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
National Occupational Standards (NOS) referenced include, but are not limited to:
1. Maintain health, safety and welfare in land-based industries
2. Prepare, inspect and maintain machinery and equipment for operational use
3. Operate machinery and equipment used within land-based operations
4. Carry out grounds maintenance and vegetation management activities
5. Assess workplace hazards and implement risk control measures
6. Work sustainably within land-based and environmental operations
Select a county from the drop down box to find your nearest UKRS accredited training provider delivering this course.
