ATV / Side by Side (SSV) driving training: riding, prevention and safety
The ATV (quad) or SSV (side-by-side vehicle) driving course is intended for professional users such as guides, wildlife technicians, telecommunications technicians, transmission line operators, biologists and other professionals working in demanding environments.
This training program complies with CNESST standards for the use of off-road vehicles (VHR) in the workplace. It also meets the requirements of Bill C-21 and established practices, making it the industry benchmark in Québec for the safety and performance of ATV and SSV users.
Regulatory context: safety and legislation
The CNESST and Bill C-21 require managers of companies using ATVs for professional purposes to take measures to ensure employee safety when using all-terrain vehicles. This regulatory framework includes several elements:
- Adequate training in line with industry practices.
- The use of safe equipment suited to the work environment.
- The implementation of safety procedures, including prevention plans and emergency response plans specific to the use of ATVs and SSVs.
These measures aim to reduce the risks associated with using these vehicles in the workplace, ensuring greater safety for operators.
Training details
The training combines theory and practice over 16 hours spread across 2 days.
Day 1: Theory module
The first day focuses on the theoretical aspects of driving ATVs and SSVs in a professional setting. This module also covers elements shared with the professional off-trail snowmobile operator training. If an operator has completed this module for ATV training, they will not need to repeat it if they take snowmobile training within the following 12 months.
Schedule for the day:
- 8:00: Introductions, course overview and explanation of objectives.
- 9:00: Workplace prevention for ATVs, SSVs and snowmobiles, and vehicle maintenance management.
- 10:00: Teamwork, leadership in work situations, and group travel with ATVs.
- 11:00: Overview of ATV, SSV and snowmobile technologies: strengths, weaknesses and areas of application.
- 11:30: Understanding the components of all-terrain vehicles in the workshop.
- 12:00: Lunch break.
- 12:45: Back to the workshop for basic disassembly, vehicle inspection, adjustments and quick troubleshooting.
- 14:00: Tie-downs, winching and towing of ATVs or snowmobiles.
- 15:00: Emergency response plans specific to ATVs and SSVs, preparation for outings.
- 15:30: Multiple-choice exam, followed by a group review.
- 16:30: Debriefing and end of the first day.
Day 2: Practical module
The second day is dedicated to driving practice in real conditions. It allows participants to practise in a simulated environment under the supervision of qualified instructors.
Schedule for the day:
- 8:00: Briefing, safety instructions and inspection of the all-terrain vehicles.
- 8:30: Unloading and warming up the vehicles.
- 9:00: Basic riding exercises: acceleration, braking, riding position, slow slalom, crossing single obstacles.
- 12:00: Lunch break.
- 12:45: Advanced manoeuvres, crossing difficult terrain (sand, mud, snow), U-turns on slopes, and complex winching.
- 15:00: Emergency scenario.
- 16:00: Loading and securing the vehicles, followed by a debriefing of the day.
Costs and training options
- Training at our sites: $719 + taxes per operator.
- Training at the client’s site: travel and accommodation costs may apply. Contact us for a customized quote at info@nordexpe.com.
We also offer a fleet of Can-Am ATVs and SSVs, renewed every year, for companies that do not have their own vehicles. Vehicle rental, as well as standard-compliant protective equipment (helmets, gloves, goggles), can be included in the training, whether at our sites or at the client’s site.
Training costs eligible under the Act to promote workforce skills development and recognition: certificate 0059125
Nord Expé inc. holds $5M in civil liability insurance for its operations.
The training includes a diagnostic consultation on the equipment, training and procedures in place within the organization visited. This course is led by professional instructors who are certified VHR guides (snowmobile, quad, motorcycle) and hold a training accreditation from the Commission des partenaires du marché du travail.
Many companies using snowmobiles for professional purposes have already adopted our label by certifying their operators as part of occupational health and safety prevention, including: Boralex, Enercon, Golder Minerals, Hydro-Québec, ski resorts, WSP, Radio-Canada and municipal fire departments.
Requalification: skills update
We recommend requalifying every three years. This 1-day program reviews basic and advanced techniques as well as emergency scenarios.
Schedule for the day:
- 8:00: Introduction and review of safety instructions.
- 9:00: Briefing, followed by a review of basic riding techniques.
- 12:00: Lunch break.
- 12:45: Practice of advanced techniques on rough terrain, winching, and emergency scenarios.
- 16:30: Debriefing and end of the training.
Requalification cost: $489 + taxes per operator.
Prerequisites and certification
To take this course, trainees must hold a valid driver’s licence. Although no previous riding experience is required, participants are asked to become familiar with their company’s prevention plans and emergency response plans before taking the course.
Certification criteria:
- Active participation and attendance throughout the training.
- A positive attitude towards safety.
- Ability to perform the technical skills taught.
- Strict compliance with safety instructions (no alcohol or drug use).
- Any failure to meet these criteria may result in the participant’s exclusion, without the possibility of taking the final exam and without refund.
Contact us
For more information or to get a customized quote, contact Nord Expé at:
Email: info@nordexpe.com
Phone: 1.418.825.1772
