Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Rough terrain or Class VII forklifts are often utilized in forestry and logging projects and are common on construction locations. They are the popular option for outdoor settings which rely on 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 as well as supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training programs are taken by the drivers in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
The first step is taking instruction in a lecture or classroom style. Training consists of the essential information regarding the machine which the driver would be working with. Details 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 written and oral exams could be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driving is the next step in the rough terrain lift truck training, quite like when drivers learn to drive a passenger automobile. The operator must learn how to drive the particular kind of rough terrain forklift that they would operate in the workplace. In addition, they should practice operating this forklift in an environment that closely replicates the conditions in which they will be driving. Several of the other situations covered in training include dealing with nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck, the supervisor could certify the operator 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 vary, the certifications are not transferable; hence, operators must be re-certified again in the new environment. Normally, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are a few very essential safety issues associated with driving a forklift. Operators have to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could actually save lives at the end of the day. Moreover, much less damage to the work environment, the machinery itself or the goods occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.