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Counterbalance Forklift Training Overview
Novice Counterbalance Forklift Training is the ideal course for individuals or companies with their first Forklift Trucks with no previous experience
Forklift Driving Requirements
This is the perfect beginner course for individuals or companies acquiring their first forklift trucks and with no prior experience in materials handling equipment.
Our forklift training course strictly adheres to the ACOP guidelines set by the HSE and is approved by the RTITB Training Board Standards, the accrediting body recognized by the HSE. We can also customize the course to meet your specific operational needs.
Training is conducted with a 3:1:1 ratio (3 trainees: 1 instructor: 1 truck), ensuring personalized instruction and hands-on experience.
Forklift Driving Requirements
Yes, according to HSE regulations, you cannot be trained as a forklift driver unless you are over the minimum school leaving age. However, the guidelines state that individuals as young as 18 years old are permitted to operate forklifts if they are working in ports.
Due to the nature of operating a forklift, which involves moving heavy materials and navigating potentially hazardous environments, it is essential that forklift operators are able to get in and out of the vehicle with ease. For safety reasons, it is recommended that all forklift truck operators maintain an appropriate level of medical fitness to ensure they can perform their duties safely and effectively.
In some countries, forklift licences are issued; however, it is still advisable to undergo training even if you already have a licence. Many employers may not accept foreign licences due to varying standards and regulations. Additionally, different countries have distinct forklift working environments, so completing training will help ensure you are confident and competent when operating a forklift.
While there is no specific legal requirement for refresher training, the Approved Code of Practice states that "refresher training should be given," a recommendation supported by the Workplace Transport Regulations (2005). As a result, many employers schedule refresher training and re-testing every 3 to 5 years. In the event of an accident, authorities will investigate when the involved operators last received training. If it has been a significant amount of time, a court may determine that refresher training should have been conducted.
Additionally, if you are on the NORS register, you are required to attend a refresher course every three years.
Yes, it is **VITAL** to ensure that the company you choose for your training is a recognized training organization. At Result Forklift Training Ltd, all our trainers are fully RTITB accredited and qualified, guaranteeing you receive the highest standard of training.
The RTITB Counterbalance Forklift Training Course – Novice FLT Operator course is specifically designed for individuals with no prior experience in forklift truck operation who want to obtain a nationally recognized qualification in the safe and proper use of counterbalance forklifts with a lifting capacity of up to 5000 kg.
Since operating forklift trucks safely necessitates that delegates refer to safety notices and fully understand the manufacturer’s instruction manual, proficiency in English literacy and language comprehension is a crucial requirement for all participants.
At the end of the course, delegates will take a short multiple-choice test. Please click here for a copy of an RTITB Mock Paper. To pass the examination, delegates must correctly answer a number of safety-critical questions.
Once delegates successfully complete the theory test, they will proceed to the practical assessment, where their ability to operate the forklift correctly and skillfully will be evaluated. The assessment will also consider factors such as speed and confidence, avoiding undue slowness, hesitancy, or excessive speed. Key exercises to be completed include stacking and de-stacking operations, as well as reversing and accelerating.
The cutoff for the practical assessment is 40 penalty points. However, delegates may be disqualified from completing the test in certain situations, such as violent collisions, dangerous operation, unsafe stacking practices, or accruing more than three 5-point penalties in a single area.
Successful delegates will receive an RTITB-accredited certificate and a photo ID card, both of which will remain valid for three years from the date of the course.
Successful delegates will gain a comprehensive understanding of current relevant legislation and best practices, while refreshing their skills in the safe operation of Counterbalance Forklift Trucks with a lifting capacity of up to 5000 kg. This training will align with approved methods and manufacturer’s instructions. The agenda for the counterbalance forklift training course includes:
– Introduction to the Counterbalance Forklift Truck: Overview of the truck to be used and daily maintenance checks.
– Relevant Legislation and Regulations: Understanding key laws, including the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER 1998, LOLER 1998, and L117 – Rider Operated Lift Trucks (ACOP & Guidance).
– Pre-Use Inspection and Maintenance: Guidelines for conducting thorough pre-use inspections and maintenance procedures.
– Care of Batteries/LPG/Diesel Trucks: Best practices for maintaining different types of forklift power sources.
– Controls and Instruments: Familiarization with the various controls and instruments on the forklift.
– Weight Assessment and Stability Factors: Learning how to assess weight and understand stability factors to ensure safe operation.
– Starting, Moving, and Stopping the Truck: Techniques for safely starting, moving, and stopping the forklift.
– Handling Laden and Unladen Pallets: Skills for effectively managing both loaded and unloaded pallets.
– Operation of Hydraulic Controls: Mastering the use of hydraulic controls for lifting and lowering.
– Stacking and De-Stacking: Techniques for safely stacking and de-stacking pallets, both free-standing and in racking at various heights.
– Loading and Unloading Procedures: Best practices for loading and unloading safely and efficiently.
– Safety Code Testing: Assessing understanding of safety codes related to forklift operation.
– Practical Test of Basic Operating Skills: Demonstrating proficiency in fundamental operating skills.
– Written Test of Operating Knowledge: Evaluating theoretical understanding through a written test.
COUNTERBALANCE FORKLIFT TRAINING VIDEOS
Pick up a load at ground level | Counterbalance Forklift Training
Pick up a load at ground level | Counterbalance Forklift Training
Forklift Driving Requirements
Yes, the course is suitable for both beginner and experienced forklift operators. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to refresh your skills, this training provides valuable knowledge and practical experience for all levels of expertise.
No, the course provider should supply all the necessary equipment for the training. This ensures that participants have access to the right tools and resources to facilitate their learning experience.
You will need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment, including safety boots and a high-visibility vest, to ensure your safety during the training.
Yes, you should be physically fit to participate in the course, as it involves operating a forklift. Good physical fitness is essential for safely maneuvering and handling the equipment effectively.
Yes, there will be both a practical and a theory test at the end of the course. You must pass these assessments to receive your counterbalance forklift licence and certificate.
Yes, an accredited forklift certificate is recognized nationally. However, an in-house forklift license lacks connection to any external accreditation or professional body, meaning it does not hold value outside of the organization if you decide to leave.
