Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Commonly used on construction locations and on forestry and logging projects, Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks is a popular choice for a lot of outdoor settings that need a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that operators need to receive lecture or classroom style training as well as supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training courses are taken by the drivers so as to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
The initial step is taking instruction in a classroom or lecture style. Training consists of the necessary information about the machinery that the driver would be working with. Specifics such as how to refuel the forklift and lifting capacities are talked about. Safety tips are really vital to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, although, they do state that written and oral exams can be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain forklift training involves supervised driving, like when someone learns to drive a passenger car. The operator has to learn how to operate the particular type of rough terrain lift truck that they would operate in the workplace. Additionally, they should practice operating this lift truck in an environment which closely replicates the situations in which they would be driving. Some of the other situations covered in training comprise dealing with vehicle traffic, pedestrians and structures nearby.
Certification
The supervisor can certify the operator for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether an operator is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck. The certification for the operator could be kept in their personnel file. If the training is to be taken in a 3rd party training facility, the trainer hands the operator the certification. As work environments vary, the certifications are not transferable; thus, drivers should be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
The safety issues connected with operating a lift truck are really vital. It is essential that operators stay alert and drive with utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits can save lives at the end of the day. As well, much less damage to the work environment, the machine itself or the goods occurs when operators are working at the top of their game.