Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Commonly utilized on construction locations and on forestry and logging projects, Rough terrain or Class VII forklifts is a popular choice for a lot of outdoor settings that need a machinery to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that operators need to receive classroom style training or lecture in addition to 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 lift truck, the initial step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training includes information about the equipment that the operator would be using. Specifics such as how to refuel the forklift and lifting capacities are talked about. Safety tips are really important to understand before operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, they do state that both oral and written exams may be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain lift truck training involves supervised driving, like when someone learns to drive a passenger automobile. The operator is required to learn how to operate the particular type of rough terrain forklift which they will drive in the workplace. Furthermore, they must practice operating this kind of forklift in an environment that closely replicates the situations wherein they will be driving. Several of the other conditions covered in training include handling pedestrians, nearby structures and vehicle traffic.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that an operator is capable of safely driving a rough terrain lift truck, the supervisor can certify the operator for that workplace. The operator's certification is kept in the personnel file of the operator. If the training is to be taken in a 3rd party training facility, the trainer hands the operator the certification. As work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, operators must be re-certified again in the new environment. Normally, training passes more quickly after the operator has been certified the first time.
There are a few very vital safety concerns connected with operating a forklift. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could really save lives at the end of the day. Also, much less damage to the equipment itself, the merchandise or the work environment occurs when operators are working at the top of their game.