Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Rough terrain or Class VII forklifts are normally used in logging and forestry projects and are common on construction locations. They are the popular alternative for outdoor conditions that rely on a machine to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that drivers have to receive classroom style training or lecture in addition to supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training programs should be taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain lift truck, the first step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training includes information about the equipment that the operator would be using. Specifics like lifting capacities and how to refuel the lift truck are talked about. Safety tips are really essential to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, although, they do state that both written and oral exams can be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driving is the next step in the rough terrain forklift training, quite like when drivers learn to operate a passenger car. The operator has to learn how to operate the particular type of rough terrain lift truck which they would drive in the workplace. Moreover, they must practice operating this lift truck in an environment that closely replicates the conditions wherein they would be driving. Some of the other situations covered in training include dealing with pedestrians, nearby structures and vehicle traffic.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the operator for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain forklift. 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 driver the certification. As work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, drivers must be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are a few extremely important safety issues associated with driving a lift truck. Operators need to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could really save lives at the end of the day. What's more, much less damage to the work environment, the equipment itself or the merchandise happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.