Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Commonly utilized on construction locations and on forestry and logging projects, Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks is a popular choice for lots of outdoor settings that need a machinery to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that drivers should receive classroom style training or lecture in addition to supervised driving training. Regular refresher training courses are taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
The first step is taking instruction in a classroom or lecture style. Training consists of the necessary information about the machinery that the operator will be working with. Specifics such as how to refuel the forklift and lifting capacities are talked about. Safety tips are really essential to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, they do state that both written and oral exams can be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain forklift training involves supervised driving, similar to when someone learns to drive a passenger car. The operator needs to learn how to drive the particular type of rough terrain forklift that they will drive in the workplace. In addition, they must practice operating this forklift in an environment which closely replicates the situations in which they will be driving. Some of the other conditions covered in training include dealing with nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
The supervisor can certify the operator for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck. The certification for the driver can 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. Since work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; hence, drivers should be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are a few really vital safety problems connected with operating a lift truck. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits can really save lives at the end of the day. Furthermore, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the machinery itself happens when operators are working at the top of their game.