RIISAM204E Operate small plant and equipment
- In-person
- On-site
Course Overview
The RIISAM204E – Operate small plant and equipment unit provides workers with the skills and knowledge to safely operate common powered tools and equipment used on civil, construction, and mining sites.
This nationally recognised unit is ideal for those using small plant items such as plate compactors, concrete mixers, jackhammers, quick cuts, leaf blowers, and small generators. It is widely used in pre-apprenticeships and construction induction programs.
Training is delivered face-to-face at our Belmont training facility, or on-site for employer groups across WA. It includes hands-on operation, safety procedures, and risk control measures for a variety of small plant types.
Course Overview
Course Dates
Course Details
This course includes the following nationally recognised unit of competency:
RIISAM204E – Operate small plant and equipment
Participants will learn how to:
- Identify and inspect small plant for safe use.
- Conduct pre-start checks and routine maintenance.
- Operate small plant items following manufacturer and site procedures.
- Manage fuels, power cords, and ventilation for petrol/electric tools
- Control risks such as vibration, noise, moving parts and dust.
- Shut down and store equipment safely after use.
- Report faults, hazards, and complete site documentation.
Assessment includes a theory component and a practical skills assessment using a range of powered tools and small plant items.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Assessment Requirement
To ensure prospective students have the necessary LLN skills to successfully undertake their chosen training, it is a mandatory requirement to complete an LLN assessment prior to booking confirmation.
Upcoming Courses
There are currently no openings available for this course.
Training Outcome
Upon successful completion of the RIISAM204E – Operate small plant and equipment course, participants will achieve a Nationally Recognised Statement of Attainment issued by KI Training and Assessing.
Participants will receive:
- A digital copy of the Statement of Attainment, which will be emailed to them either on the day of course completion or the following business day.
This unit forms part of many entry-level construction and civil pathways and is often used in site induction and safety compliance training.
Prerequisites & Course Requirements
There are no formal pre-requisites for this training.
No prior experience is required—this unit is suitable for new workers, school leavers, and anyone seeking formal recognition of their small plant skills.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): To enter our workshop, participants are required to wear steel-capped boots, long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Eye and hearing protection provided during training.
Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) Requirements: Participants must possess adequate LLN skills to interpret safety procedures and documentation. Completion of the LLN assessment is required prior to confirmation of the booking.
Minimum Age: 18 years and over

*Eligibility rules may apply and other funding options may be available to you – depending on your industry or course.
Important Information explaining the common course funding options listed above along with additional information is available in the Linked Important Information page.
Additional information
This course supports roles across:
- Civil construction and roadworks.
- Landscaping and parks maintenance.
- Mining shutdown and support crews.
- Utilities, power and water teams.
- Pre-apprenticeship and entry-level construction pathways.
It is also commonly required by employers to verify that workers can use small, powered equipment safely and in line with WHS standards.
Once certified, you’ll be able to:
- Select and use small plant appropriate to the task.
- Conduct pre-starts and identify mechanical faults.
- Operate equipment safely, reducing risk of injury or equipment damage.
- Comply with site-specific risk controls for noise, dust, fuel, vibration and PPE.
- Follow shutdown procedures and secure equipment for storage or transport.
This unit is a key part of safe systems of work where small plant and powered tools are used daily.

Book Now
Book your training now and take the next step toward meeting workplace and licensing requirements.
This course is delivered face-to-face by experienced trainers and includes practical, real-world assessment to ensure you’re job-ready from day one.



