Stay Safe on the Jobsite with Bobcat’s Free Safety Training Videos
Bobcat Co.’s YouTube channel is one of the most robust in the compact equipment industry. The company releases at least one video each week. These range from product demos and operational walkarounds to customer stories and, notably, detailed safety training videos. This safety content deserves special recognition. The videos are well-produced, comprehensive and often available in both English and Spanish. While many compact machines require no formal certification to operate, these training videos help bridge that knowledge gap with accessible, consistent guidance. Here are five standout safety videos from Bobcat’s channel.
Toolcat Utility Work Machine Safety (Above)
This video walks viewers through key safety procedures when operating a Bobcat Toolcat. It covers everything from reviewing manuals and checking tire pressure to understanding attachment safety. Operators will find clear direction on daily inspections, safe driving and basic maintenance.
Key topics:
- Operator PPE and safe entry
- Daily inspections and attachments
- Operating on varied terrain
DT18 Dethatcher Safety (Spanish)
Bobcat’s walk-behind dethatcher video provides operator guidance in Spanish. It explains how to inspect, operate and maintain the DT18 safely. It also emphasizes site prep, proper technique and basic troubleshooting.
Key topics:
- Pre-use inspection and controls
- Jobsite setup and safe transport
- Maintenance do’s and don’ts
Telehandler Safety Training
Unlike many compact machines, telehandler operation requires certification. Bobcat’s telehandler safety video reinforces this and walks through everything an operator should know: from daily checklists to driving with an extended boom. It even addresses proper boom storage during maintenance.
Key topics:
- Certified training
- Boom safety and stability
- Ground condition and slope operation
Compact Wheel and Articulated Loader Safety
In one of its more versatile videos, Bobcat covers both compact wheel loaders and small articulated loaders. The video discusses machine inspection, ROPS/FOPS protection, dial-before-you-dig calls, safe attachment use and operator visibility.
Key topics:
- Pre-start walkarounds
- Rated load capacities
- Transport safety
Compact Tractor Safety Basics
This video highlights how to operate Bobcat compact tractors safely. It includes start-up checks, jobsite navigation, PTO use, road transport and maintenance. Like others, it closes with a call for operator training and frequent manual reviews.
Key topics:
- Visual checks before use
- Operator positioning and seatbelt use
- Towing and transport precautions
Why Safety Training Matters
Compact equipment often falls through regulatory cracks. Skid steers, track loaders and mini excavators rarely require formal training to operate. But these machines still carry significant risks — especially on active jobsites or uneven terrain. Telehandlers are a notable exception. Operators must be certified. Yet even certified operators benefit from ongoing training, especially with jobsite conditions constantly changing. That’s where Bobcat’s videos add value. They’re free, easy to understand and always available. They promote daily inspection habits and reinforce proper machine behavior — both crucial for long-term uptime and operator safety.
A Channel Worth Subscribing To
Bobcat’s YouTube channel sets the standard for OEM-driven safety content. The company doesn’t just market machines. It helps users run them safely, confidently and effectively. If you’re in the compact equipment space, Bobcat’s weekly video drops are worth your time — especially if you want to keep crews informed and machines protected. And while you’re on YouTube, feel free to drop over to Compact Equipment‘s YouTube page and subscribe for the best machine overview videos on the internet.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
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