22311
NCCER Module 22311: Dump Trucks Course Syllabus
Course Information
- Course Title: Dump Trucks
- Module ID: 22311
- Craft: Heavy Equipment Operations
- Level: Level 3
- Total Hours: 25 hours (typically 10 hours classroom/theory + 15 hours hands-on/practical)
- Edition: Current NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations curriculum (4th edition or later)
- Prerequisites: Completion of Heavy Equipment Operations Levels 1 and 2, or equivalent modules including:
- Introduction to Heavy Equipment (22101)
- Heavy Equipment Operation Safety (22102)
- Equipment Operation, Inspection, and Readiness (22108)
- Soils (22308)
- Site Work (22210)
- Credential: Successful completion contributes toward NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations Level 3 certification and the interim “HEO Dump Trucks” credential.
Course Description
This module provides comprehensive training on the safe and effective operation of dump trucks used in construction and heavy equipment environments. It covers both on-road and off-road dump trucks, including identification of types, controls and instrumentation, inspection and maintenance procedures, safe driving practices, and operational techniques such as startup, shutdown, maneuvering, loading, and dumping.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:
- Identify and describe the major types of on-road and off-road dump trucks and their applications.
- Recognize and explain common instruments, gauges, and control systems on dump trucks.
- Perform pre-operation and post-operation inspections in accordance with manufacturer and safety guidelines.
- Identify and perform basic operator-level maintenance tasks.
- Demonstrate safe startup and shutdown procedures.
- Apply safe driving and maneuvering practices for on-road travel and jobsite operations.
- Execute proper loading and dumping procedures while maintaining safety and efficiency.
- Recognize and mitigate hazards associated with dump truck operations.
Course Outline and Schedule
The course is structured over approximately 25 hours, typically delivered in 5–7 sessions depending on class size and equipment availability. Schedule is flexible and may include a mix of classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on practice.
| Session | Topics Covered | Hours | Delivery Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Dump Trucks • Types of dump trucks (on-road vs. off-road) • Common components and applications | 3 | Classroom lecture, visuals, discussion |
| 2 | Instruments, Gauges, and Controls • Dashboard layout and instrumentation • Control systems (hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical) | 4 | Classroom + simulator/demo |
| 3 | Inspections and Maintenance • Pre- and post-operation inspections • Operator-level maintenance requirements • Identifying defects and reporting procedures | 5 | Classroom + hands-on walkthrough |
| 4 | Safe Driving Practices and Procedures • On-road driving rules and hazards • Jobsite maneuvering and traffic awareness • Startup and shutdown techniques | 5 | Classroom + supervised practice |
| 5 | Loading, Dumping, and Advanced Operations • Safe loading procedures • Dumping techniques and stability considerations • Basic maneuvers (turning, backing, grading support) | 5 | Hands-on practical training |
| 6–7 | Review, Performance Tasks, and Assessment • Comprehensive review • Hands-on performance verification • Written module exam | 3 | Review + testing |
Teaching Methods
- Classroom lectures and discussions
- Multimedia presentations (NCCER PowerPoint slides if available)
- Demonstrations using actual equipment
- Supervised hands-on operation on safe training grounds
- Group activities and safety scenarios
Required Materials
- NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations Level 3 Trainee Guide
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, high-visibility vest
- Access to on-road and/or off-road dump truck(s) for practical training
- Manufacturer operator manuals for equipment used
- Notebook and writing materials
Assessment and Evaluation
- Written Exam: NCCER module exam (multiple-choice, closed-book; minimum passing score 70%)
- Performance Verification: Hands-on tasks evaluated by a certified NCCER instructor, including:
- Complete pre-operation inspection
- Safe startup and shutdown
- Basic maneuvering and driving
- Loading and dumping simulation or operation
- Attendance and Participation: Full attendance required; active participation in practical sessions mandatory for certification
- Grading: Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards. Successful completion earns module credit in the NCCER Registry.
Safety Emphasis
Safety is integrated throughout the course. All operations adhere to OSHA regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and NCCER safety protocols. Zero-tolerance policy for unsafe practices.
Instructor Qualifications
Instructor must be NCCER-certified in Heavy Equipment Operations and hold current credentials as a Craft Instructor or higher.
This syllabus aligns with NCCER’s standardized curriculum to ensure trainees gain industry-recognized skills for safe and proficient dump truck operation.