Towing Tractor Operator Certificat

TOWING TRACTOR (TUGGER) HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR CERTIFICATE

Definition and Legal Requirement

A Towing Tractor (Tugger or Terminal Tractor) is a motorized vehicle used for horizontal load transport and maneuvering by towing trailers, dollies, or Unit Load Devices (ULDs) in large, specialized sites such as factories, warehouses, ports, and airport aprons. These vehicles are categorized as "Heavy Equipment," and their operation legally requires a "Towing Tractor Type Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate" (G Class) approved by the Ministry of National Education (MEB). Uncertified operation leads to serious legal responsibilities under Law No. 6331 on OHS.

Training Content and Objectives

The training program aims to provide operators with the necessary knowledge and skills for safe, quick, and damage-free load transportation:

• Occupational Safety and Site Rules: OHS measures and traffic regulations specific to the working area (apron, warehouse internal traffic).

• Machine Checks: Daily routine checks, understanding technical components, and basic fault identification.

• Loading and Coupling Techniques: Correct use of trailer/dolly locks, and safe load coupling (hooking/slinging).

• Maneuvering and Driving: Towing with and without load, reversing, navigating tunnels, and precise driving techniques in tight spaces.

• Emergency Procedures: Steps to follow in the event of an accident or breakdown.

Certification and Document Usage

After completing theoretical and practical training, candidates take written and practical exams authorized by MEB. Successful candidates are awarded the "Towing Tractor Type Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate."

• Public Road Use: If the towing tractor will be operated on public roads (outside private sites), this certificate must be endorsed onto the driving license as G Class according to the Highway Traffic Law.

• Certificate Code: The official heavy equipment code used for license endorsement is generally 105.57.

• Validity: The certificate itself must be kept in the personnel file and be visible in the e-Devlet system as legal proof of competency, even if the vehicle is not used on public roads.