Winch Training Course

The winch training course is structured to train users of 4x4s, trucks or tractors equipped with vehicle mounted winches, Tirfor type hand winches, or trailer winches, to be able to utilise the equipment to its full potential, safely but effectively. This course can include vehicle recovery, self-recovery or moving objects on land or in water.

We can provide winch training in the workplace, or at one of our dedicated off-road training sites.

During the course the following subjects are discussed and demonstrated in an informal but professional manner. At all stages interaction between the instructors and course members is encouraged to ensure full understanding of the subject under discussion.

winch features and limitations

the suitability or otherwise of various types of winches

the importance of good communication between the winch operator and rigger

assessing and contriving suitable anchor points

wire rope assessment and care

safety related issues involved when winching in areas with public access

use of associated equipment such as pulley blocks and shackles etc

Consideration of minimising wear on consumable items such as wire ropes

Practical winching session:

Out on the course pupils are given practical demonstrations of typical winching situations for both self-recovery and using the winch as a stationary retrieval method. Pupils are then able to practice a variety of winching situations along with the selection of correct winch accessories for the task in hand, all under the close guidance of the instructor.

Subjects covered during the practical element of the course include:-

assessment of the task, including identifying potential dangers

selection of correct winch accessories for the task in hand

good communication between winch operator and rigger including attention to clear signalling

appraising task progress and possible re-assessment

correct and safe winch rigging on completion of task