Accredited 4WD

Introduction

Driver Safety Services offers four distinct training programs aimed at equipping participants with the requisite skills required to address various 4WD situations.

These are:
}   4WD/AWD Introductory Course
}   Off Road Operations
}   Alpine Driving Techniques
}   Recovery
 
Introductory Course

This introductory course is for people who want to learn about the differences between cars and 4WDs (including AWDs): not in the off-road sense, but in more routine driving.

4WDs and AWDs offer a range of advantages to the city driver—advantages that need to be understood to be exploited.

4WDs also have their weaknesses. In some situations they are more difficult than a car to control in emergencies. In certain types of crash they may not offer the same degree of protection for occupants.

 

You will learn the difference between 4WD, AWD and conventional vehicles and the implications this has for your safety and your pocket.

This course provides you with information about:

4WD transmissions

The vehicle’s construction

The vehicle’s weight and the position of that weight

Suspension

4WD tyres

Engine performance

Basic checks for safety and vehicle maintenance

You will learn how to correctly use a 4WD transmission and learn how incorrect use may lead to unnecessary wear on the vehicle.

 

Alpine Driving Techniques

The aim of this training program is to provide each participant with a theoretical and practical appreciation of the challenges involved with driving a vehicle safely in alpine (snow and ice) conditions.

The theoretical aspect of this module, of approximately 30 minutes duration, will introduce the participant to the risks inherent with driving in snow and ice conditions and how to address those risks.

Each participant will then undertake a practical drive session encompassing chain fitting and vehicle operation in adverse conditions.

Off-Road Operations

The aim of this program is to ensure participants can operate a 4WD safely off road.

Where possible, participants should complete the introductory program or demonstrate suitable 4WD/AWD experience before attempting this course.

The competencies that will be addressed, during a four hour theory and practical session, are:

} Operate vehicles on or across a slope

} Operate vehicle ascending a steep slope, including stall recovery

} Operate vehicle descending a steep slope, including stall recovery

} Operate vehicle in rugged terrain

} Operate jack (high lift)

} Checks at Completion of Operations

Furthermore, this program will encourage participants to identify hazards and obstacles and to use appropriate judgement when determining whether your vehicle is capable of surpassing specific hazards.

Participants will also gain an understanding of how to operate a specific vehicle within its manufacturer’s specifications.

This program can be modified for different circumstances and terrain, depending on the requirements of the client or the equipment.

 

Recovery

This program specifically targets vehicle recovery operations and is delivered in a 4 hour theory and practical session.

Participants must have off road experience prior to completing this program.
Elements addressed include:
Recovery of a 4WD in various situations by safely using standard recovery equipment.
Alternative methods of recovery NOT using the winch
Operate recovery equipment as per the operatinginstructions
Working out vehicle limitations and applications
Possible equipment located within the vehicle whilst beingoperated in remote areas
Identifying Safe Working Limits (SWL) on equipment
Possible effects on vehicles from incorrect use
Differences between loaded and empty vehicles
 
 
Each of these programs can either be offered independently or combined in order to address business and/or individual needs although minimum delivery requirements of 4 participants per course exist.
Furthermore, it is possible to combine the Introductory Course and Off Road Operations into a 12 hour training program that will lead participants to be assessed against the National Competency Standard TLIC2507B ‘Operate four wheel drive vehicle’ and obtain a Statement of Attainment.
 
Rural Fire Drive and 4WD Emergency Driving Contexts

Driver Safety Services has developed and delivered curriculum aimed at helping employers and employees address the training needs that arise from operating 4WD and Heavy Vehicles, such as Category 1 Fire Tankers, in adverse and emergency conditions. Given the specialised nature of these training needs, DSS will tailor its programs to meet specific needs.

Eligibility

To enrol in any of DSS four-wheel driving courses you must, as a minimum, have a current drivers' licence as well as access to resources. Furthermore, previous 4WD experience is a pre-requisite for the Recovery Session.

When and where

Depending on the availability of equipment and suitable terrain, DSS offers these courses anywhere in Australia. Notionally, the 4WD/AWD Introductory Course is an eight (8) hour theory and practical session. The Alpine Driving Techniques is a two (2) hour module that can be incorporated into the Introductory Session. Each of the Recovery and Off Road Operations sessions are four (4) hours duration.

The Rural Fire Drive and 4WD Emergency Driving Programs are targeted programs and therefore can be delivered anywhere in Australia and in timeframes that suit individual client needs.DSS prides itself on its ability to tailor course curriculum to meet individual company needs therefore why not call us for more information and assistance.

Cost

Contact us for course costs.

Resources

Download four-wheel drive course information (PDF 1.3 MB)