22302
Course Syllabus: NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations – 22302 Dozers
Note on Module ID: Official NCCER sources identify the Dozers module as 22302 (30 hours) in current Heavy Equipment Operations curricula (Levels 2/3). Module 22304 covers Excavators (35 hours). This syllabus is developed for the Dozers module based on NCCER standards; if your reference uses 22304 for Dozers, it may reflect an older edition.
Course Title: Dozers Module ID: 22302 Duration: 30 Hours (typically delivered over 5–10 days, combining classroom instruction, lab/simulator practice, and hands-on field operation) Level: Heavy Equipment Operations Level 2/3 Prerequisites:
- Completion of Heavy Equipment Operations Level 1 (including core modules on safety, basic operations, grades, soils, and excavation math)
- Familiarity with heavy equipment safety and basic operational techniques
- Valid driver’s license (recommended for site access)
Course Description This module introduces the safe and efficient operation of dozers (crawler tractors/bulldozers) in construction and earthmoving applications. Trainees learn to identify dozer types and components, perform inspections and maintenance, and execute basic to intermediate operating techniques. Emphasis is placed on safety, preventive maintenance, site interpretation, and common tasks such as pushing material, grading, stockpiling, and slope work. The course aligns with NCCER standards and prepares trainees for performance verification and credentialing.
Learning Objectives Upon successful completion, trainees will be able to:
- Identify and describe common types, uses, and major components of dozers.
- Apply safety guidelines and OSHA/MSHA requirements specific to dozer operations.
- Perform prestart inspections, preventive maintenance, startup, and shutdown procedures.
- Interpret grade stakes, site markings, and civil drawings for dozer work.
- Demonstrate basic and advanced dozer operations, including travel, blade control, and attachment use.
- Perform common work activities safely and efficiently, such as rough/finish grading, stockpiling, cutting swales/slopes, clearing/grubbing, and spreading materials.
- Respond appropriately to soil conditions, terrain challenges, and site hazards.
Required Materials
- NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations Trainee Guide (current edition)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest
- Calculator (basic functions)
- Notebook and writing materials
- Access to dozer equipment (crawler type preferred) for hands-on training
Instructional Methods
- Classroom lectures and discussions
- Multimedia presentations and videos
- Hands-on simulator sessions (if available)
- Supervised field operations on actual dozers
- Group activities and case studies
Course Outline
| Session/Section | Topics Covered | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Introduction to Dozers | Overview of dozer uses in construction/earthmoving Types of dozers (crawler vs. wheeled, standard vs. specialized) Major components (undercarriage, tracks, blade types, rippers, winches) | 4 |
| 2. Safety Practices | Dozer-specific hazards (rollover, blind spots, falling loads) OSHA/MSHA regulations Personal protective equipment and site communication Safe operating practices around personnel and obstacles | 5 |
| 3. Inspections and Maintenance | Prestart walk-around inspections Fluid checks, track tension, and component wear Preventive maintenance schedules Basic troubleshooting and reporting procedures | 5 |
| 4. Startup, Shutdown, and Basic Controls | Startup and warm-up procedures Instrument panel and controls (blade, transmission, steering) Basic maneuvering (forward/reverse, turns, slot dozing) Shutdown and securing the machine | 6 |
| 5. Site Interpretation and Preparation | Reading grade stakes and markings Calculating cut/fill (review from prerequisite modules) Soil types and their impact on dozer performance Site planning for efficient dozing | 4 |
| 6. Advanced Operations and Work Activities | Blade techniques (pushing, spreading, finish grading) Stockpiling material Cutting swales, slopes, and ditches Clearing, grubbing, and ripping Working in various terrains and conditions | 6 |
| Review and Performance Practice | Integrated review Supervised hands-on practice | Included in above |
Assessment and Evaluation
- Written Exam: NCCER module exam (multiple-choice, closed-book, minimum passing score 70–75%)
- Performance Verification: Hands-on tasks evaluated by a certified NCCER evaluator, including:
- Safe prestart inspection and startup
- Basic maneuvering and blade control
- Completion of work tasks (e.g., grading a pad, pushing a stockpile, cutting a slope)
- Attendance and Participation: Required for full credit (minimum 90% attendance)
- Grading: Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards; successful completion earns module credit toward Heavy Equipment Operations certification
Certification Successful completion (passing both written and performance components) awards NCCER module credit, contributing to the Heavy Equipment Operator – Dozer credential and overall Heavy Equipment Operations certification. Credentials are registered in the NCCER National Registry.
Instructor Contact [To be filled by training provider]
Safety Reminder Safety is the top priority. All operations must comply with site-specific rules, and trainees must report any unsafe conditions immediately. Hands-on training requires direct supervision by qualified operators.
This syllabus is based on official NCCER curriculum descriptions and performance profiles for the Dozers module. Training providers may adjust scheduling while maintaining total hours and objectives.