Get Ready to Be Safe – And More!
Intro to Safety and Basic Equipment Use | Workforce Education at NHTI
Registration is now open for the first Intro to Safety and Basic Equipment Use classes this spring. 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 in late March 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 program is about more than compliance—it’s about empowering our teams with the tools and mindset to work smarter, safer, and more confidently,” said Andrew Pelkey, NHLA president. “By investing in practical training like the Safety and Basic Equipment Use classes, we’re helping companies protect their people, reduce costs, and raise the bar for professionalism across the industry.”
The Worksite Safety certificate will be explained in detail during the NHLA Dinner Meeting on January 22 at the Red Blazer in Concord.
This is the first in a series of certificate programs being developed by NHLA and NHTI’s Workforce Development Office. A second certificate on plant identification and maintenance is already underway for rolling out this spring, similar to the NHLA’s existing NH Certified Landscape Professional program.
“Workforce Education at NHTI continually seeks out engagement with industry partners to identify workforce needs across all industries,” said Kathy Taylor, director of Workforce Development & Community Education. “The partnership with NHLA is just one example of this engagement where we can meet the organization’s needs for short-term training programs. Our strategic vision is to serve NH’s best interest and that includes meeting workforce demands. We can only do that if we partner with our employers and industry organizations. These types of partnerships also encourage employees to continue their education and increase their value within their organizations.”
“NHLA is planning an initial series of five to six practical classes that any landscape company can access for low-cost training,” said Mike Barwell, chair of the education committee. “Our hope is that owners, managers and team leaders can quickly and practically learn how to approach any project – such as routine maintenance, hardscape and landscape installations – and be knowledgeable with each other and with clients.”
Future certificate classes may include irrigation and lighting installation, hardscape construction using man-made and natural stone, and turf and soil disease and pest control.
The certificates do not imply licensing or academic credentials, although the education committee hope it inspires landscapers to continue their education through the NHCLP classes or through NHTI’s offerings.
Registration is open.
