Tractor Safety: Foundations

Tractor Safety: Foundations

Digital Badge  0.00  Online

Course Description

Welcome to Tractor Safety: Foundations! This course provides learners with the foundational knowledge needed to operate tractors and agricultural equipment more safely and confidently.

Whether you are new to tractor operation or looking to strengthen your safety practices, this course helps build awareness of the risks commonly encountered in agricultural settings.

Through engaging lessons, learners explore tractor components, safe operating procedures, pre-operation inspections, hazard recognition, emergency preparedness, and equipment connections. The course emphasizes decision-making skills that help reduce risk and prevent injuries.

Participants will gain a stronger understanding of agricultural safety requirements, operator responsibilities, and best practices for working around tractors and farm equipment.

Completion of this course partially fulfills the U.S. Department of Labor requirements for youth certification through the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program.

Course Format:
This self-paced online course includes instructional videos, virtual tractor operation demonstrations, interactive activities, immersive 360° learning experiences, and assessments delivered fully online through Brightspace.
Earn a Digital Badge!
Upon successful completion, you will earn the Tractor Safety: Foundations Micro-Badge, a verified digital credential issued by UMaine Cooperative Extension. This badge can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, portfolios, and professional websites to demonstrate your foundational knowledge of tractor and agricultural equipment safety.

What You Will Learn

  • Tractor Safety: Understand agricultural hazards, operator responsibilities, safe work practices, and youth safety requirements.
  • Tractor Components and Controls: Learn the purpose and function of tractor systems, controls, instrumentation, PTOs, hydraulics, and electrical systems.
  • Pre-Operation Inspection and Preparation: Develop knowledge for inspecting equipment, identifying safety concerns, and preparing tractors for operation.
  • Safe Tractor Operation: Explore safe driving techniques, rollover prevention, roadway travel, and operation in varying terrain and weather conditions.
  • Emergency Preparedness and Response: Build strategies for emergency planning, communication, first aid preparedness, and weather-related safety.
  • Hazard Recognition and Accident Prevention: Identify common agricultural hazards, including livestock, chemicals, electrical systems, confined spaces, and machinery.
  • Implements and Equipment Connections: Learn how to safely connect, operate, and manage common tractor implements and attachments.

Benefits of the Course

Build confidence in your ability to operate tractors and agricultural equipment more safely.

Develop practical knowledge that can help you identify hazards, prevent accidents, and respond effectively during emergencies.

Gain valuable safety knowledge that supports agricultural employment, youth development, and long-term success in the industry.

Technology Requirements:
The course content is delivered entirely online through Brightspace, the learning platform. Participants will need:
  • An active email address
  • A reliable internet connection
  • A computer or mobile device with video/audio capabilities

Grant Acknowledment: This work is supported by the Northeast Extension Risk Management project award no. 2024-70027-42540, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

USDA and NARE logos

Accommodations & Assistance:
To request accommodations or assistance, contact extension.brightspace@maine.edu.
Price: $0.00

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