Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Class VII or rough terrain lift trucks are usually utilized in logging and forestry projects and are common on construction sites. They are the popular alternative for outdoor conditions which depend on a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that drivers have to receive lecture or classroom style training in addition to supervised driving training. Regular refresher training programs are taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to operate a rough terrain lift truck, the first step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training consists of information regarding the equipment which the driver will be using. Details like lifting capacities and how to refuel the forklift are talked about. Safety tips are 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, similar to when someone learns to drive a passenger car. The driver should learn how to drive the particular type of rough terrain lift truck that they will operate in the workplace. In addition, they should practice operating this kind of lift truck in an environment that closely replicates the conditions in which they would be driving. Some of the other situations covered in training include dealing with nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the operator for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether a driver is capable of safely driving a rough terrain forklift. 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 operator the certification. As work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, operators should be re-certified again in the new environment. Normally, training passes more quickly after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are a few really essential safety issues associated with driving a lift truck. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits could actually save lives at the end of the day. Additionally, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the equipment itself happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.