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All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Facilitators Workbook & Answers

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Facilitator

ATV Induction Workbook

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

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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 Scan terrain and environment and

identify hazards E Evaluate and predict what may

happen E 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

! Candidate Questions

Evaluate and predict what may happen

E Execute

Execute your decision based on your skills

and your ATV

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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

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Fig. 2.2 – Right Hand Controls

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

service or owners manual. Pay special attention to warning lights etc.

Fig. 2.7 – Left View of an ATV

Fig. 2.8 – Right View of an ATV

Pre-Start Inspection

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.

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Fig. 2.9 – Check Tyre Pressure

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. 2.10 – Check Headlights

Fig. 2.11 – 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

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parts while the engine is off. Shake handlebars, footrests etc., before each ride and periodically check fasteners. Check shock absorbers and mounting bolts.

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. 2.4 – Swing leg over the seat

Fig. 2.5 – Place both feet on foot rests

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.

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.

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


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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

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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

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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).

• 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.

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Parking

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? 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.

Turning

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.

Fig. 3.2 – Turning into the Turn


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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.

1. Describe 2 important points to turning an

ATV.


• 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)

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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. 4. Where should an operator’s feet be

situated during a quick stop? Keep feet on the footrests

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.


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Step One

Step Two

Step Three

Step Four

Step Five

Step Six

Towing & Reversing

An ATV on patrol may be required to tow such items as patrol shelters and IRBs etc. 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. ! Candidate

Questions1. Why should the SEE principle help an

operator from having to cross an obstacle.

Scan, Evaluate, Execute 2. Where should an operator concentrate

their weight while crossing an obstacle?

Body weight slightly back

3. On what angle should an obstacle be

approached? 90 Degrees

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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.

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.

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Tread Lightly

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.


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