Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Usually used on construction sites and on forestry and logging projects, Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks is a popular choice for many outdoor settings that require a machine to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that operators should receive classroom style training or lecture together with supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training courses are taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain forklift, the initial step is taking lecture or classroom type of instruction. This training consists of information about the equipment which the operator will be using. Specifics like for example how to refuel the forklift and lifting capacities are talked about. Safety tips are vital to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, although, they do state that both oral and written exams could be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driving is the next step in the rough terrain forklift training, quite like when drivers learn to drive a passenger automobile. The driver is required to learn how to operate the particular kind of rough terrain forklift which they would drive in the workplace. Moreover, they should practice operating this forklift in an environment which closely replicates the conditions in which they would be driving. Some of the other conditions covered in training comprise dealing with vehicle traffic, pedestrians and nearby structures.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the driver for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain forklift. The certification for the driver can be kept in their personnel file. If the training is to be taken in a 3rd party training facility, the trainer hands the driver the certification. Since work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, drivers must be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
There are a few very essential safety problems associated with driving a forklift. Operators need to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits could save lives at the end of the day. Also, much less damage to the equipment itself, the goods or the work environment occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.