Snowmobile training: riding, prevention and safety
Snowmobile training is designed for professionals working in demanding environments, like guides, wildlife technicians, biologists, transmission line operators and other specialists. This program is designed to ensure the safe and efficient use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in the workplace.
This program complies with CNESST standards and the requirements of Bill C-21, making it the benchmark for snowmobile users in Quebec. It covers all aspects of snowmobile safety and performance in the workplace:
- Inspection, routine maintenance, maintenance management, adjustments
- Equipment
- Snowmobile legislation and regulations
- Supervision, leadership, teaching, group management
- Snowmobile driving on hard-packed snow, ice, asphalt
- Off-trail snowmobiling in deep snow with or without sled and on deep slopes
- Getting out of tricky situations, snow, snow slush, clear water
- Emergency repairs, towing
- Managing a group of snowmobilers (briefing, supervision)
- Introduction to avalanche risk
This snowmobile driving course is challenging and suitable for all levels. No riding expertise is required.
Although these snowmobile training programs already exist in a standard format, they can be adapted to suit the objectives of your audience. That’s why we invite you to contact us for any inquiries or requests for customization. This snowmobile driving course can be offered at our Sainte-Brigitte-de-Laval base (Quebec region) or directly at the site of your choice, anywhere in Quebec, New Brunswick, Labrador or Ontario.
The training program includes a diagnosis and advice for the equipment, training and an evaluation of the procedures already in place within the visited organization.
This course is given by certified professional trainers, OHV level IV off-trail snowmobile guides. They are experts in Nordic expeditions, and are certified by the CPMT.
Many companies using snowmobiles for professional purposes have already adopted our label, certifying their snowmobile operators for preventive health and safety at work. These organizations include: BORALEX, ENERCON, GOLDER Minerals, HYDRO-QUÉBEC, Université Laval, WSP, Radio-Canada, as well as several municipalities’ fire departments.
Regulations: Safety and legislation
The legal framework, including CNESST and Bill C-21, requires managers to ensure:
- Training in line with industry practices
- Use of safety equipment adapted for the job
- Specific prevention plans and emergency measures
These measures reduce the risks associated with snowmobile use and guarantee greater safety for operators.
Training details
The snowmobile training combines theory and practice over the course of 16 hours, spread over 2 days.
Day 1: Theory module
This module covers the fundamental principles and prepares trainees for the practical aspects.
Program:
- 8:00 am: Introduction, presenting the objectives
- 9:00 am: Snowmobile prevention and maintenance
- 10:00 am: Workplace leadership
- 11:00 am: Snowmobile technologies and uses.
- 12:00 pm: Lunch break
- 12:45 pm: Vehicle inspection, adjustments and troubleshooting
- 2:00 pm: Winching and towing
- 2:00 pm: Emergency planning and preparation
- 4:30 pm: Debriefing
Day 2: Practical module
This day is devoted to applying the learned skills in a simulated environment.
Program:
- 8:00 am: Vehicle inspection and briefing
- 9:00 am: Basic driving techniques (braking, slalom, obstacles)
- 12:00 pm: Lunch break
- 12:45 pm: Crossing difficult terrain, U-turns on slopes
- 3:00 pm: Emergency simulations
- 4:30 pm: Debriefing and closing
Training costs and options
- At Nord Expé’s site training: $689 + taxes per trainee
- At costumer’s site training: Additional fees may apply
Vehicles and protective equipment (helmets, goggles) are available for rental and renewed annually.
Costs are eligible under the Act to promote skills development (certificate 0059125).
10 million operations liability insurance.
Requalification: Updating skills
Requalification every 3 years is recommended to maintain skills.
Requalification program (1 day):
- Safety instructions reminder
- Advanced driving techniques
- Emergency simulations
- Cost: $389 + taxes per trainee
Requirements and certifications
To participate:
- Valid driver’s license required
- Familiarity with company prevention plans
Certification criteria:
- Active participation and attendance throughout the course
- Positive attitude towards safety
- Ability to perform the taught techniques
- Strict compliance with safety instructions (no alcohol or drugs)
Failure to comply with these criteria may result in the participant’s exclusion from the course, with no refund and no right to take the final exam.
Contact us
For more information or for a customized estimate, contact Nord Expé at:
Email: info@nordexpe.com
Phone: 1.418.825.1772
Already built, our courses are designed to fit to different type of organisations and workers. Contact us for a custom proposal.
We built a diagnostic about: assets, formations, procedures of your organisation post courses.
Training organization certificate: 0059125