EKT 2010

The trailer handling courses are run in conjunction with approved training providers across the region.

COURSE OBJECTIVES
To enable course members to:

• Understand the requirements of the Risk Assessment
• Understand the legal requirements for towing trailers on/off the road either at work or privately
• Appreciate the main causes of accidents and what can be done to avoid them
• Gain knowledge of the different types of hitches in use, and what contributes to an ideal towing combination
• Couple/un-couple a trailer safety and in line with the recommended DSA test method
• Carry out all necessary checks prior to taking the unit onto the public highway
• Drive with a trailer

- through a restricted entrance
- round 90” turns
- across the DSA test layout
- stop the unit safety within a given distance

Who is the Course For?
Those wishing to update their skills in trailer handling and/or satisfy H & S legislation regarding the Safe Use of Trailers at work
Anyone required to take the trailer test for towing on the road
Anyone needing to tow trailers off-road as part of their work
Pre-requisites A full driving licence (not provisional) with B entitlement.

Duration/Format
One to three days

Instructor/Trainee Ratio
1:2 maximum for day

Course Content
Introduction/domestics
Legal requirement for towing on or off road
- Road Traffic Act
- HSWA and PUWER’98
- Licensing requirements
Common causes of accidents
General Safety Code for Towing ON or OFF Road
Types of hitches
Different loads/stability/ security
Towing vehicle/trailer combinations and set-up
Vehicle checks and basic maintenance
Loading and nose weight criteria/measurement
Coupling and un-coupling techniques
Basic trailer handling
- Demo drive
- Reversing including restricted areas
- Turning through entrances
- Emergency stop/braking exercise
Assessment of individual trainee performance and feedback.
Re-cap
On-road practical trailer handling

Facilities/Equipment required:
For towing vehicles registered October 2003 onwards, for the test the trailer must be a box
type or livestock trailer i.e. it requires full use of external mirrors

Outcomes:
The basic course includes operator assessment and certificates will be awarded to those reaching the required standard.

For those wishing to take the B&E test, the course is of 2 to 3 days duration with the test arranged for the final day. Trainees are accompanied to the test centre.