Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks are usually used in forestry and logging projects and are common on construction locations. They are the popular choice for outdoor settings that rely on a machinery to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that drivers need to receive lecture or classroom style training 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 forklift, the initial step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training consists of information about the machine that the operator would be using. Specifics such as lifting capacities and how to refuel the lift truck are discussed. Safety tips are vital to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, 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 lift truck training, quite similar to when drivers learn to drive a passenger car. The driver needs to learn how to operate the particular type of rough terrain forklift that they will drive in the workplace. What's more, they should practice operating this forklift in an environment that closely replicates the situations in which they would be driving. Some of the other conditions covered in training include handling pedestrians, nearby structures and vehicle traffic.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the driver 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 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 more quickly after the operator has been certified the first time.
The safety problems connected with driving a forklift are really important. It is important that operators stay alert and drive with utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits can save lives at the end of the day. What's more, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the machinery itself happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.