Kingfisher County Extension is collaborating with Blaine County to offer youth between 14 and 15 years old an opportunity to become certified in the operation of farm machinery in order to be eligible for a summer job.

The reason youth need to obtain their certification is that it qualifies them for insurance coverage under the employer’s insurance policies.

Area farmers and ranchers who employ youth to operate equipment are now requiring that these young workers secure an equipment safety certification before they hire them.

The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 dictates that all youth between the ages of 14 and 15 become certified in farm machinery safety before they can be covered by their employer’s insurance policy.

The 1938 Act also requires that youth must be 14 years old on the day the certification test is given or they are not eligible to be certified.

To become certified, the OSU Extension program requires students attend three classroom sessions followed by a hands-on outdoor tractor driving demonstration in order to earn their certification. Students must pass the written exam with at least 70 percent correct answers and then demonstrate adequate command of equipment during the hands-on practice session.

Local classroom sessions will be 4 to 8 p.m. April 22-25. Driver training begins at 4 p.m. on April 26, all at the Kingfisher County Fairgrounds.

Reservations for this year’s course will be taken until Monday, April 8.

There is a limited enrollment capacity for this certification and it’s the only course offered this year.

Reservations can be confirmed by calling 405-375-3822.

The cost of tuition is $30 per student to cover the materials, refreshments, and the tractor driving activities.

Therefore, if a student plans on summer employment operating farm equipment, they should enroll immediately to reserve a place in this training.

There must be at least five participants to have the class.

Participants will also be completing the ASI ATV safety rider course and certification weather permitting.

Anyone with further questions may call the Kingfisher County Extension Office to ascertain additional information.