Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Normally utilized on construction locations and on logging and forestry projects, Class VII or rough terrain lift trucks is a popular option for a lot of outdoor settings which need a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that operators must receive lecture or classroom style training as well as supervised driving training. Regular refresher training programs are taken by the drivers in order to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain lift truck, the first step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training consists of information about the equipment that the operator would be utilizing. Details like lifting capacities and how to refuel the forklift 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 can be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain lift truck training includes supervised driving, similar to when someone learns to drive a passenger car. The driver should learn how to drive the particular kind of rough terrain forklift which they would drive in the workplace. Additionally, they have to practice operating this forklift in an environment which closely replicates the conditions wherein they would be driving. Several of the other conditions covered in training include dealing with nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that a driver is capable of safely driving a rough terrain lift truck, the supervisor may certify the driver 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. Since 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.
The safety issues associated with driving a lift truck are really vital. It is important that drivers stay alert and drive with utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could save lives at the end of the day. What's more, much less damage to the equipment itself, the products or the work environment happens when operators are working at the top of their game.