Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Commonly used on construction sites and on logging and forestry projects, Rough terrain or Class VII forklifts is a popular choice for many outdoor settings which require a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that drivers must receive classroom style training or lecture as well as supervised driving training. Regular refresher training courses must be taken by the operators so as to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
The first step is taking instruction in a lecture or classroom style. Training includes the essential information regarding the machine that the operator 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 oral and written exams could be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driving is the next step in the rough terrain lift truck training, quite similar to when drivers learn to operate a passenger automobile. The driver should learn how to operate the specific type of rough terrain lift truck that they will operate in the workplace. What's more, they must practice operating this type of forklift in an environment which closely replicates the situations wherein they would be driving. Several of the other conditions covered in training include handling structures nearby, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain forklift, the supervisor may certify the operator for that workplace. The operator's certification is kept in the operator's personnel file. If the training is to be taken in a 3rd party training facility, the trainer hands the operator the certification. Because work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; thus, drivers must be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
There are a few extremely essential safety problems associated with driving a forklift. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits can save lives at the end of the day. Moreover, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the equipment itself occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.