Powered Mobile Equipment Operator Training

On October 9, 2008, new training standards for operators of powered mobile equipment (PME) come into force.

Section 154 of The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996 imposes three principle requirements regarding PME training:

o That training be provided by a competent person
o That the training meets the requirements of Table 14.1
o That a written record of the training is kept readily available

PME is any self-propelled machine that is designed to manipulate or move materials or provide a work platform for workers. Although experienced operators may be competent in operating equipment, they may not be aware of all the health and safety hazards to themselves and others arising from the operation of the equipment.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) recognizes that it will take time for employers to implement the new training standards. While all PME operators must receive the appropriate training as of October 9, 2008, OHS will allow individual employers additional time to comply if the training process is shown to be underway.

The following documents provide additional information and guidance on compliance with this new training standard. Contact Occupational Health and Safety to learn more.

Powered Mobile Equipment Operator Training Documents

• Questions and Answers
• Sample Checklist to Assess Competency
• List of OHS Regulations related to safe PME operations