NHLA and NHTI are partnering to create a new series of short, practical programs designed to help our members improve their operations and lower costs.

This first certificate is designed for crew leaders and managers to prepare current and new workers for safe seasonal operations, lower accident and injury rates and reduce Workers Compensation claims.

The six, four-hour classes start  March 11 and conclude as spring cleanup starts in April. Each class combines traditional classroom and hands-on learning provided by qualified instructors. Topics include creating a culture of safety, best practices for equipment start and operation for hand-held and riding equipment. NH Department of Safety Troop G will have a session on meeting federal and state operating standards.

This course will focus on the importance of safety and compliance in the landscape industry.  It is designed to give landscaping professionals the knowledge and skills to work safely, productively, and with confidence.

Class Dates: March 11 – April 15, 2026

Days/Times: Wednesdays, from 8:00am – Noon at the NHTI Campus.  Sweeney Hall, Room 311 and outdoor locations for hands-on training.

REGISTRATION

Topics to be covered will include:

• Introduction to Safety Culture
• Company Safety Policies & Procedures
• Incident Reporting & Investigation
• Hazard Identification & Risk Management
• Required Personal Protective Equipment
• Worksite Safety & Traffic Control
• Manual Handling & Ergonomics
• Equipment Inspection, Startup, & Shutdown Procedures (hand-held equipment)
• Equipment Inspection, Startup, & Shutdown Procedures (walk behind/ride on equipment)
• Truck & Trailer Pre-trip and Driving Protocols
• Production Techniques

Student Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this training, students will:

• Protect operators against known hazards;
• Protect equipment against improper operation; and
• Understand the levels of techniques to improve production and safety.

Personal protective equipment: You will need to have the following for the hands-on portion of the course:

• Eye protection
• Work gloves
• Safety shoes
• Hearing protection
• Hard hat