All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Facilitators Workbook & Answers

Transcription

1 All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Facilitators Workbook & Answers s Information Full Name: Date of Birth: Address: Postcode: Contact Telephone / Mobile: Club / Service: Date Completed: Facilitator

2 INTRODUCTION This workbook forms part of the induction package that will provide lifesavers with the skills and knowledge required to operate an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) safely and effectively. For your safety, candidates must read this manual and complete all of the questions before being eligible to undertake ATV operations. It is also a requirement to read the ATV Owner s Manual, labels on you vehicle and any loccal operational procedures prior to ATV operations. ATVs are an effective vehicle for use in lifesaving provided that candidates understand the risks involved in operating the vehicle and take measures to avoid hazardous situations. UNIT 1: RISK AWARENESS Knowing the Hazards Knowing the hazards and risks associated with the use of an ATV and understanding its driving capabilities are major aspects required to avoid injury and damage. The SLSA ATV Policy, this workbook and an appropriate induction into the use of your specific vehicle will all provide the correct information and skill level to operate safely and responsibly. Safe ATV operations depend on the ability to recognise hazardous conditions. The ability of the operator to read the terrain and surrounding environment (including weather) will play a large part in how safe the ATV will operate. Driving safely requires the operator to take responsibility for his or her own abilities, the operating environment, and the capabilities of the ATV. Operating within the SLSA ATV Policy and personal limits is simple to do. Most injuries are caused by operating beyond the abilities of the vehicle and the operator. Operating an ATV includes the following safety equipment; an approved helmet (as per local/state law) patrol shirt and shorts, hat and sunglasses, and enclosed hard soled shoes (runners are appropriate). Depending on the elements the operator may chose to wear warm clothing (patrol tracksuit) or wet weather gear. Fig. 1.1 ATV Induction Training SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 2 of 16

3 Managing Risk Managing risk involves the operator being able to make appropriate decisions. Accidents can be caused by the following factors: Poor decision making Lack of available information or knowledge Lack of appropriate skill levels The thought process can utilise strategies as an aid to assist decision making. Such a strategy is the SEE theory. SEE: Scan, Evaluate, Execute. SEE is a decision making process that assists the operator manage risks. S E E Scan terrain and environment and identify hazards Evaluate and predict what may happen Execute your decision based on your skills and your ATV The SLSA ATV policy sets out all operating procedures including clothing, personal protective equipment (PPE), speed regulations etc. This policy provides an insight into some of the risks associated with ATV operation and management strategies. 1. Identify three risks involved in riding an ATV. 1. Damage to Equipment 2. Personal Injury 3. Public Injury 4. Environmental Damage 2. How many people does the ATV policy permit to ride an ATV at the same time? One person on a single seater quad bike, two persons on a dual seat quad bike and two persons on a Gator. 3. Identify and describe 4 pieces of apparel/personal protection that must be worn while operating an ATV. 1. Approved Helmet as per state law 2. Patrol short and shirt 3. Hat and sunglasses 4. Enclosed hard soled shoes 4. Complete the following risk management table. S Scan Scan terrain and environment and identify hazards E Evaluate Evaluate and predict what may happen E Execute Execute your decision based on your skills and your ATV SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 3 of 16

4 UNIT 2: PREPARING THE ATV Preparing to Ride Personal safety and comfort are enhanced when wearing protective clothing. Operating without protective clothing increases the chances of injury. It is SLSA policy to always wear the following personal protection equipment (PPE). Helmets Helmets maybe required as per local or state law. If a helmet is not required by law, SLSA strongly recommends the use of a bike helmet meeting Australian Standards. Eye protection Clarity of vision is imperative when operating an ATV. Operating without eye protection may result and increases the chances of a severe eye injury. Eye protection also protects operators from harmful solar radiation. Footwear Enclosed hard soled shoes (runners are acceptable) are mandatory for all ATV operators. Uniform Standard long-sleeved patrol shirt and patrol shorts are a minimum requirement for operating an ATV. Not only does this offer protection from debris but also meets SLSA Sun Safety requirements. Getting Familiar with the ATV As all makes and models of ATV s differ slightly (it is extremely important to thoroughly read the owner s manual for the respective ATV). Knowing the Controls The following are typical ATV controls Standard ATV controls (if equipped): 1. Rear brake lever 2. Front brake lever 3. Throttle 4. Ignition switch 5. Fuel supply valve 6. Choke (primer) 7. Engine stop switch 8. Gas cap/tank vent 9. Shift lever (on clutch models) 10. Starter (eg. Pull, kick, electric) 11. Light on/off switch 12. Reverse gear lever 13. Transmission 14. Diff lock Fig. 2.1 Left Hand Controls SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 4 of 16

5 service or owners manual. Pay special attention to warning lights etc. Fig. 2.2 Right Hand Controls Fig. 2.7 Left View of an ATV Fig. 2.8 Right View of an ATV Pre-Start Inspection Fig. 2.3 Automatic Gear Selector Controls Operators should ensure that they can use controls without looking at them. This allows the operator to scan for hazards as well as assists in maintaining balance and correct body positioning. Checking the ATV A pre-ride inspection of your ATV s mechanical condition is important to minimise the chance of injury or mechanical failure. Always inspect your ATV, prior to use ensuring the ATV is in a safe operating condition. Follow the inspection and maintenance procedures outlined by your Pre-start inspections can be summarised utilising T-CLOC. Tyres and Wheels T Air pressure Always have the recommended tyre pressure. Be sure all tyres are inflated to equal pressure. If the tyre pressure is uneven the vehicle may pull to one side. Condition Check tyres for cuts or gouges that could cause air leakage. To avoid loss of control or injury, make sure axle nuts are tightened and secured by cotter pins. Check these before every patrol. SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 5 of 16

6 Fig. 2.9 Check Tyre Pressure Fig Check Headlights Controls and Cables C Controls Know the location of all controls on your ATV. Make sure they work properly and are easy to use. Throttle and other cables Ensure throttle moves smoothly and snaps closed with the handlebars in any position. Please note that off-road and beach environments are hard on cables. Brakes Do the controls operate smoothly and adjusted according to manufacturers specifications? Are they positioned for ease of reach? Brakes are a crucial part of riding and must be in working condition. Foot gear shift lever (where fitted) Is it firmly attached and positioned for safe operation? Are the controls comfortable to use? Make adjustments as required. Lights and Electrics L Ignition switch Check the condition of the switch and ensure functionality. Engine stop switch Does it turn off the engine? Headlight, warning, and stop lights (if equipped) Are they working? Fig Check Headlight Switches Oil and Fuel O Know your ATV s fuel range. Check oil level with dipstick or sight glass while the engine is off. Check your owner s manual for procedure. Always fill the tank at the end of patrol or use to ensure readiness. Check for fuel or oil leaks. Chain and drive shaft chassis C Chain Inspect, adjust and lubricate the chain regularly. Your chain is the vital link from the engine to the wheels. Drive shaft If the ATV is equipped with a drive shaft rather than a drive chain, check for oil leaks. Nuts n Bolts Rough riding will loosen parts. Look and feel for loose SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 6 of 16

7 parts while the engine is off. Shake handlebars, footrests etc., before each ride and periodically check fasteners. Check shock absorbers and mounting bolts. 6. Seat yourself in a comfortable position, as far forward as practical. 7. Keep feet on the footrests at all times, even when the engine is not running. Any unoperational items identified pre-start checks are required to be entered into the Patrol / Lifeguard Log Mounting the ATV The following steps break down the mount procedure for an ATV 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Grasp the handlebar with left hand. 3. Place left foot on the footrest do not step on the shift lever. 4. Lean over; grasp the handlebar with other hand. 5. Swing leg over the seat and place your foot on the other footrest. Fig. 2.6 Place both feet on foot rests Dismounting the ATV Dismounting the ATV correctly: 1. Set park brake. (or place into park on automatic ATVs) 2. Stop engine using engine stop/kill switch. 3. Turn off ignition. 4. Follow the steps for mounting in reverse order. Fig. 2.4 Swing leg over the seat Fig. 2.5 Place both feet on foot rests 1. Name five controls that must be checked before operating an ATV. Rear & Front brake lever Throttle Ignition switch Fuel supply valve Choke (primer) Engine stop switch Gas cap/tank vent Shift lever (on clutch models) Starter (eg. Pull, kick, electric) Light on/off switch Reverse gear lever Transmission Diff lock SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 7 of 16

8 2. Why is it important that you can locate the controls without looking at them? This allows the operator to scan for hazards as well as assists in maintaining balance and correct body positioning. 3. Where should your feet be placed while operating an ATV? Keep feet on the footrests at all times, even when the engine is not running 4. How does incorrect tyre pressure effect an ATV s operation? Always have the recommended tyre pressure. Be sure all tyres are inflated to equal pressure. If the tyre pressure is uneven the vehicle may pull to one side. 5. What does the following acronym stand for? (Complete the table) T Tyres & Wheels C Controls & Cables L Lights & Electrics O Oil & Fuel C Chain & Drive Shaft Chassis SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 8 of 16

9 UNIT 3: DRIVING THE ATV Starting The operator of the ATV is responsible for personal and public safety at all times. When starting the ATV, the following principle applies; BONE-C. Practising this procedure will ensure an efficient start process. Brakes B Set the parking break, or for a semi automatic transmission ATV place the gear selector into park. On O Turn the fuel valve to ON. Turn ignition key on, if equipped. Neutral or Park N Check the transmission is in NEUTRAL or PARK. If neutral or park is not selected and the transmission will not shift. It may be necessary to release the parking brake, rock the machine back and forth keeping your feet on the footrests, and then reapply the parking brake. Engine E Check that the engine stop switch is in the RUN or START position. Choke C If the engine is cold apply the CHOKE in the ON position. Once the engine is warm, return the choke to its normal position. This is extremely important for the smooth running of the ATV. 1. If operating a semi automatic ATV how would you engage neutral? If neutral or park is not selected and the transmission will not shift. It may be necessary to release the parking brake, rock the machine back and forth keeping your feet on the footrests, and then reapply the parking brake. 2. How can you determine whether an ATV is in neutral? (using owners manual) Most will have a neutral light display with the gauges, or the location of the gear selector. 3. What gear should an ATV be started in? Neutral 4. How long should you leave the choke on after starting an ATV? a. 10 seconds b. until warm c. 1 minute d. 5 minutes SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 9 of 16

10 Riding Procedures Posture The correct riding posture will assist the operator to effectively manoeuvre the ATV, operate the controls and assist when shifting body weight. Proper straight line riding posture includes: Head and eyes up, looking well ahead. Shoulders relaxed, back straight. Elbows bent, slightly away from your body and slightly above the height of the handlebars. Hands on the handlebars. Knees in toward the tank. Feet on the footrests, toes pointing straight ahead. Fig. 3.1 Shoulders relaxed, back straight When sitting forward on the seat the ATV will pivot underneath you. Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests. Failure to do this may reduce your ability to control the ATV or could cause loss of balance. Loose limbs may accidentally come in contact with the rear wheels, which could cause injury. Starting Out When starting out: Make sure the park brake is set. Mount the ATV from the left side. Start the ATV using BONE-C. Hold the rear brake. Shift into first gear (see your owner s manual for procedure for your model ATV). ATV Induction Workbook Release the rear brake and slowly apply the throttle. Remember to keep both feet on the footrests at all times When riding in a straight line, remember to look well ahead which you are in, and in the direction of travel, avoid looking at the controls. This will help you maintain a straight course. Shifting Gears Different models and makes of ATVs have various transmissions, the operator must have prior knowledge how to change the gears of the respective ATV. (Consult your trainer and your owner s manual for more information on the specifics relating to gear change on your ATV.) Always release the throttle while shifting to prevent the front wheels from lifting. Learn the sounds of your engine in an aid to know when to shift or keep the engine speed in the most effective range. All SLSA approved ATVs are equipped with reverse gear. Improper operations in reverse could result in serious injury. Observe the following recommendations when operating in reverse. Look behind for obstacles or people. When it is safe to proceed, operate slowly. Braking Look ahead when braking, not at the ground. Observe the following tips, in order to make smooth, controlled stops. Release the throttle. Shift to a lower gear to use the engine to slow the vehicle. Apply both brakes equally (if equipped). Avoid excessive braking while cornering. Do most of your braking before the turn. Apply both brakes lightly on slippery surfaces. Keep head and eyes up. Keep your feet on the footrests at all times. SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 10 of 16

11 Parking Turning ATV Induction Workbook When parking the ATV always attempt to find flat ground, and: Shift to neutral Stop the engine with the stop/kill switch, and if equipped, turn off the ignition switch. Set the parking brake, shift into park or a low gear if you have a semi automatic, to keep the ATV from rolling. 1. What side should the operator mount the ATV from? Left Hand Side 2. What are 3 actions necessary to brake safely? Apply both brakes equally (if equipped). Avoid excessive braking while cornering. Do most of your braking before the turn. Apply both brakes lightly on slippery surfaces. Keep head and eyes up. Keep your feet on the footrests at all times. 3. Where should the operators vision be directed while riding? Handling characteristics for ATVs vary depending upon basic design and how they are equipped. The turning information in this manual applies to most ATVs with one exception: ATV with unlocked differentials. ATVs with solid rear axles, and those with locked differentials, turn both rear wheels at the same speed. This means when turning, the inside wheel must slip slightly on the surface. ATVs with unlocked differentials allow the rear wheels to turn at different speeds. If a rear wheel on an ATV with an unlocked differential leaves the ground, it will spin freely. Then when it touches the ground again, it may grab and cause the ATV to lose control. Turning Basics Always check your owner s manual for the recommended turning techniques for your ATV. The following basic turning technique applies to ATVs ridden at low to moderate speeds only. Do not turn the ATV at excessive speeds. At Low Speeds Move body weight forward and to the inside of the turn. Turn the handlebars while looking in the direction of the turn. Head and eyes up, looking well ahead. 4. How should the ATV be left while unattended? Set the parking brake, shift into park or a low gear if you have a semi automatic, to keep the ATV from rolling. 5. How should a turn be negotiated in relation to braking? Avoid excessive braking while cornering. Do most of your braking before the turn. Fig. 3.2 Turning into the Turn SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 11 of 16

12 1. Describe 2 important points to turning an ATV. Fig. 3.3 Turning into the Turn As speed increases, turn controls sharply, move body weight toward the inside of the turn to maintain your balance. If your ATV starts to tip while turning, if possible, lean your body further into the turn while gradually making the turn wider. At Moderate Speeds The method of turning at a moderate speed is similar to turning at lower speed. The difference being, that as speed increases the operator must lean further forward toward the inside of the turn. This is to counteract the higher centrifugal forces as cornering speed increases. Sharp Turns Learning to make sharper turns through practice will help you respond to negotiating crowds or obstacles within your path on the beach. Be sure to slow down before the turn. Keep eyes up, looking through the turn at your intended path of travel. Watch for terrain irregularities (holes/sandcastles) so that you can slow down as necessary. Sharper turns require more body movement in the direction of the turn. If an error in judgement causes the ATV to start to tilt toward the outside of the turn, straighten the handlebars or lean the upper body further into the turn. Remember it is important to first practice gradual turns and then progress toward sharper turns as your riding skills develop. Be patient and practice basic skills before moving on to more difficult manoeuvres. Move body weight forward and to the inside of the turn. Turn the handlebars while looking in the direction of the turn. 2. Describe the weight shift technique while turning. As speed increases, turn controls sharply, move body weight toward the inside of the turn to maintain your balance. 3. If an inside wheel starts to lift while you are turning, what actions are necessary to control the ATV? If your ATV starts to tip while turning, if possible, lean your body further into the turn while gradually making the turn wider. Stopping and Swerving Driving safely and within the scope of the ATV policy will decrease the chances of injury and vehicle damage. Practice quick stops in a flat open area as to become aware of how your ATV responds. Be especially careful of excess weight on the vehicle and factors such as hard or soft sand. Stopping Quickly Because the beach is a heavily populated area you must be prepared to stop quickly, slow down or swerve to avoid obstacles, such as running children, beach erosion or sandcastles in your path. A child may dart out, or you may not be able to see beach erosion until the last moment. Never drive faster than the SLSA policy permits. A quick stop could be necessary at any time so remember: Ride within your ability and SLSA policy boundaries. Use both brakes when stopping. Although the front brake (when travelling forward) SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 12 of 16

13 does provide the majority of stopping power. Slow the ATV when cresting a sand dune or proceeding through a turn. Never ride past your limit of visibility. If you accidentally lock the wheels, release the brakes momentarily and reapply the brakes more gradually. Keep feet on the footrests. Swerving The operator should be able to make emergency swerves to avoid unexpected hazards when riding. Follow these guidelines to help prevent mishaps: Keep feet on the footrests. Look in the direction of the swerve. Shift weight to the inside of the turn. DO NOT brake while swerving brake AFTER swerving and only after the ATV is travelling in a straight line. A short burst of throttle will help the ATV turn. 1. What are the maximum permitted speeds to operate and ATV? (Using Policy) - 20km/hr in an open and unpopulated area; - 5km/hr in a moderately populated area; 2. Where should the operator s weight be places while performing a swerve? Shift weight to the inside of the turn 3. What brakes should be applied and when during a quick stop? Use both brakes when stopping. Although the front brake (when travelling forward) does provide the majority of stopping power. ATV Induction Workbook 5. What is a factor which an operator must be conscious of while performing a quick stop or swerve? Because the beach is a heavily populated area you must be prepared to stop quickly, slow down or swerve to avoid obstacles, such as running children, beach erosion or sandcastles in your path. A child may dart out, or you may not be able to see beach erosion until the last moment. Confronting Obstacles Obstacles should be avoided where possible. Smaller obstacles may be crossed if proper judgement and skills are utilised. An obstacle may be small rocks, beach erosion or driftwood. When crossing obstacles, keep your knees and elbows flexible. Use your legs and arms as shock absorbers to cross obstacles more comfortably. Keep your elbows bent out slightly and away from your body to retain flexible riding posture for uneven terrain. Keep in mind the following tips when crossing obstacles: While standing on the footrests, approach obstacles as close to 90 degrees as possible. Without losing momentum, adjust approach speed prior to the obstacle. As the front wheels rise up and over the obstacle, hold handgrips firmly, with knees and elbows slightly bent and body weight slightly back. As the rear wheels ride over the obstacle move your body weight forward to balance the ATV. Concentrate weight on footrests, not on handlebars. As the front wheels contact the obstacle apply a small amount of throttle. As the front wheels clear the obstacle, lean forward and release the throttle. 4. Where should an operator s feet be situated during a quick stop? Keep feet on the footrests SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 13 of 16

14 Step One Step Six Towing & Reversing An ATV on patrol may be required to tow such items as patrol shelters and IRBs etc. Step Two Step Three Keep in mind the following points when towing with an ATV: Never tow and object greater than 350kg or manufactures specifications as detailed in your ATV Owners Manual. Never tow on steep or slippery surfaces e.g. slippery boat ramps. Never tow objects with people on board. Always use correct lifting techniques when loading/attaching a trailer. Always keep your vision in the direction of travel. 1. Why should the SEE principle help an operator from having to cross an obstacle. Step Four Scan, Evaluate, Execute 2. Where should an operator concentrate their weight while crossing an obstacle? Body weight slightly back Step Five 3. On what angle should an obstacle be approached? 90 Degrees SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 14 of 16

15 Riding on Inclines While conducting a roving patrol, you may need to negotiate sand dunes or to gain a better vantage point. An ATV can overturn extremely easily on hills or inclines. Being prepared and knowing what to do will promote safe practices. Always be sure to check the park brake is in working order before riding in dunal areas. Any racking on the ATV should be as light as possible to maintain a low centre of gravity on the ATV, thus reducing the risk of rolling. Driving up hills / inclines Remember: Some hills are far too steep for the ATV s abilities. Use your common sense and seek an alternative passage. Never ride past the limit of your visibility if you cannot see what is on or over the crest of a hill, slow down until you have a clear view. The key to being a safe hill rider is to keep your body weight uphill (high side) at all times. Improper use of the ATV while climbing and descending can easily result in loss of control and possibly an overturn. Always follow the correct procedures for your ATV contained in the owner s manual. When approaching an uphill climb you should: Keep your feet firmly on the footrests. BEFORE climbing the hill, shift the ATV into a lower gear and speed up so you can maintain momentum. When approaching the uphill climb, move bodyweight as far forward on the seat as possible, or stand and position torso over the front wheels. Getting to the bottom of a hill / incline Always check the terrain carefully before commencing a descent. Choose a path that is as straight downhill as possible. Shift your bodyweight weight to the rear of the ATV and use a low gear. When going downhill: Shift bodyweight to the rear (uphill). Keep speed low. Use gradual braking. Use a lower gear. Look ahead. ATV Induction Workbook Traversing Traversing is driving across a slope rather than directly up or down. Traversing a slope is difficult. Avoid traversing slopes with excessive slippery, rough or loose surfaces. When traversing: Keep both feet firmly on the footrests. Lean bodyweight uphill. When riding on the sand, you may be required to gently turn the front wheels uphill to keep the ATV on a straight line across the hill. If the ATV begins to tip, turn the front wheels downhill if the terrain allows. If the terrain does not permit, dismount on the uphill side immediately. Avoid making sudden throttle changes. Avoid traversing where possible 1. What terrain is more difficult and should be avoided on hills? Steep inclines. 2. When negotiating hills, what should you do if your ATV begins to tip? Adjust body weight and utilise brakes. Laws & Regulations Your ATV is an OFF-ROAD vehicle and therefore is not designed for street or highway use. Many states require registration of ATV s through the Road Transport Authority or other licensing body. ATVs used for lifesaving purposes may be subject to different provisions than recreational vehicles. Local councils or land managers should be contacted to gain permission to operate an ATV on their beach. SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 15 of 16

16 Tread Lightly ATV Induction Workbook Being a responsible ATV operator requires a combination of self preservation as well as protecting the environment. It is your responsibility to avoid accidents by riding within your skills and at safe speeds as described in the policy. Setting a good public image is also important and observing the correct speeds and limiting unsafe manoeuvres will portray a positive image. The best way to protect our environment is to stay on established trails. Using marked trails or driving over tire marks already in the sand (where possible) limits any potential damage to the beach and reserve. 1. From whom should permission be sought to operate an ATV on your beach? Local Land Manager & Life Saving Victoria 2. Where are you not permitted to operate an ATV in your area? Will apply to your local beach 3. What does tread lightly mean? Protecting the environment by remaining on established tracks and only travelling for necessity not pleasure. SLSA.ATV.CR.1.1, 15/10/2004 Page 16 of 16