4-H Tractor Safety and Certification Course

Cortland County 4-H is offering the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program to youth ages 14 and older (4-H and non 4-H welcome) for an opportunity to be certified for farm employment, which would include the operation of farm tractors and machinery.

The Hazardous Occupations Order in Agriculture (HOOA) requires youth ages 14 and 15 to have at least 24 hours of safety instruction in order to operate a tractor and machinery on a farm other than that owned by their parents. The program includes training on farm safety, tractor safety, tractor operation and other related topics. This program is a great opportunity for youth who currently work on farms or around machinery, those who will be seeking employment on a farm, or anyone who would just like to learn more about farm and machinery safety. After completing the training course, youth will be required to pass a written knowledge test and driving test to receive the certification. Classes are run by experienced instructors, and are held at a variety of locations, including area machinery and equipment dealers. Some sessions may be located in unheated facilities or outdoors, please dress according to the weather. Proper footwear is required for all sessions.

The 2024 starting date is Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Cazenovia Equipment in Cortland. The course will be held every Thursday night from 6:30-8:30 through May 2nd. This course is only held once a year. Youth 14 and older are encouraged to attend. We are following all CDC Covid regulations, and we will update this as the starting date approaches.

A fee of $40.00 per enrolled 4-H member, and $50.00 per non-enrolled participant, is charged to cover cost of materials used in the course. Participants are required to attend all (9) of the training sessions to receive their certification. Acknowledgement of Risk Form must be filled out for all participants.

In order to satisfactorily complete this course and receive the certification, participants must:

• Register and pay the appropriate fee.
• Attend scheduled classes and actively participate. Attendance will be recorded.
• Complete reading assignments in the manual as the course progresses, weekly quizzes.
• Pass the written final exam with a 70% grade. Please let one of the instructors know if you need any assistance testing. Readers and/or special arrangements can be made.
• Complete the final practical driving exam.

To register : Click here

Acknowledgement of Risk Form: Click here

Last updated January 18, 2024