What is BS 6574 – mechanic training for earth-moving machinery about? 
A machine is only as good as the people maintaining it. BS 6574 is an International Standard that is intended as a guide to the training of mechanics.
BS 6574 describes the training of mechanics appropriate for earth-moving machinery. BS 6574 does not specify any procedure for assessing proficiency or competence, since these factors are usually covered by local and national practices and regulations.
BS 6574 is not intended to override any applicable national regulations or standards.
BS 6574 applies to all earth-moving machinery as defined in ISO 6165.
Who is BS 6574 – mechanic training for earth-moving machinery for? 
BS 6574 on ‘mechanic training for earth-moving machinery’ is useful for:
- Manufacturers and suppliers of earth-moving machinery
- Civil engineers
- Mechanical engineers
- Project managers
- Owners and contractors of earth-moving machinery
- Trainers of mechanics
Why should you use BS 6574 – mechanic training for earth-moving machinery?
One of the most important aspects of machine operation and servicing is safety. Trained mechanics would be able to not only service the earth-moving machinery efficiently, but would also ensure safety at all times. The training of mechanics as discussed in BS 6574 focuses on such aspects in addition to the actual maintenance.
As a project manager or engineer responsible for training mechanics, you need to ensure that candidates for training possess a sufficiently sound general education with suitable bias towards workshop practice and the use of tools, and that they are sufficiently mature to benefit from the training.
In selecting potential trainees account needs to be taken not only of ability, but also of physical and mental toughness, since the maintenance of machinery is arduous and skilful work, which, particularly when carried out in poor site conditions, can require a high degree of medical fitness.
In addition, BS 6574 guides you with aspects such as the structure of training programmes, familiarisation with machinery, measuring instruments, and the use of machine tools.
BS 6574 prevents interruptions in work due to machine failure, and contributes towards the longevity of earth-moving machinery.
