Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Class VII or rough terrain forklifts are often utilized in logging and forestry projects and are common on construction sites. They are the popular option for outdoor conditions that depend on a machine to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that drivers have to receive lecture or classroom style training as well as supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training courses must be taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain forklift, the first step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training consists of information regarding the equipment which the operator will be utilizing. Details like lifting capacities and how to refuel the forklift are discussed. Safety tips are essential to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, they do state that both written and oral exams can be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain lift truck training includes supervised driving, like when somebody learns to drive a passenger car. The operator must learn how to operate the specific type of rough terrain lift truck that they would operate in the workplace. Additionally, they need to practice operating this lift truck in an environment which closely replicates the conditions in which they would be driving. Several of the other conditions covered in training include dealing with vehicle traffic, pedestrians and nearby structures.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the operator for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain forklift. The certification for the driver 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. Since work environments vary, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, operators must be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are some extremely important safety issues connected with operating a forklift. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could save lives at the end of the day. Additionally, much less damage to the work environment, the equipment itself or the products occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.