The Alberta Construction Training Institute’s (ACTI) course is 6-8 Hr depending on experience. Compact or Mini Excavators are tracked or wheeled vehicles that are mostly used for digging and lifting but can also be used with a wide variety of attachments. They normally come with an independent swing boom and a backfill blade. Operators must develop a good understanding of how both the blade and boom operate

This course describes how to safely operate the excavator, and includes a review of regulations, site hazards, safety features, inspection procedures and emergency planning. There is both classroom training as well as limited hands-on training.

Below is the course outline :

• Safety Regulations & Standards
• Excavator Fundamentals & Controls
• Employer and Worker Responsibilities
• Hazard Identification and Mitigation
• Preventative Maintenance & Procedures
• Site & Pre-Operational Inspections
• Machine Orientation & Safe Operation
• Proper Start Up & Shut Down Protocols
• Steering, Maneuvering, Excavating Techniques
• Trenching & Excavating Techniques
• Machine Positioning & Control
• Transporting & Hauling Securement Standards
• Proper Loading Procedures