Training is part of Ponsse’s comprehensive solution for customers
Ponsse’s training team, which consists of a versatile group of different specialists, ensures that PONSSE forest machines can be used effectively, safely and economically at logging sites around the world. The work done by the team pays off in the long term after new knowledge turns into practical routines.
PIECING TOGETHER THE TRAINING PUZZLE
When a new Ponsse machine is delivered, the delivery includes comprehensive operator training. The main goal of operator training is to provide customers and their drivers with knowledge and expertise about new solutions and the use of machines.
Ponsse has an extensive network of operating trainers in different countries who continuously train machine users to operate safely and energy-efficiently with Ponsse’s forest machines. Operator training is often given by the forest machine on site, but nowadays PONSSE simulators are also often used, which make it easy to update skills.
Ponsse factory’s 11 operating trainers handle the task of teaching essential skills to the Ponsse network’s operating trainers.
OPERATOR TRAINING IS KEY
Operator training focuses on ensuring competence. Whenever a customer acquires their first PONSSE forestmachine, they will be taught everything they need to know about the new machine model. Otherwise if an operator has years of experience with PONSSE machines, their previous skills will be updated.
Operator training covers the safe way of working, machine maintenance and servicing, data transfer systems and their use, reporting, machine and operator adjustments, as well as automation. Its other areas include the working methods required when using different machine models at different logging sites.
While new operators can be provided with simulator training, training is otherwise provided during the machine delivery. If required, training can also be continued remotely online or by telephone.
“Trainers ensure that operators’ skills are at a sufficient level, and improve them if required, so that machines can be operated safely and effectively,” says product trainer Hannu Vauhkonen.
Ponsse provides not only operator training, but also product and additional training, including effective machine operations in the hands of professional operators.
ERGONOMICS AND WELLBEING
Ergonomics and wellbeing are important elements of training. Operators are taught how to adjust the seat and controls and how to use different automated functions to reduce physical stress. As a result, operators will have more energy during their time off. Working methods develop and become easier as the machines and their technology develop, highlighting the continuous development of expertise.
Ponsse wants to provide its customers with a comprehensive solution, and training is an important part of that.
“When our customer buys a machine, that is not the apex of our cooperation, but rather the starting point of the story,” notes Jussi Jurvanen, training manager at Ponsse.
TRAINING INCREASES EFFECTIVENESS AND WELLBEING AT WORK
Ponsse’s training day was held for the personnel of Kimmo Kulojärvi Oy, a company operating in Eastern Lapland and the Koillismaa region. As many as 15 employees, from harvester to forwarder operators, participated in the event alongside employees of subcontractors.
“Everyone was excited about the training day. The training provided the professionals with new ideas about harvesting methods. They really understood that work does not always need to be done in the same way it has been done before,” notes managing director Kimmo Kulojärvi.
For Kulojärvi, wellbeing at work and the energy-efficient way of working were the most significant parts of the training. “All new knowledge that operators learn is always a good thing. The best part was learning how operators can keep getting better throughout the working day. If work can be made lighter through training, operators will have more energy when they go home at the end of the day. This would be a major incentive for me,” says Kulojärvi.
The training covered such factors as crane adjustments and strengthening the operators’ current skills. The training made the operators think about their work, and the aim is to hold another training day shortly regarding the use of the measuring device and all its features.