Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Rough terrain or Class VII forklifts are usually utilized in logging and forestry projects and are common on construction locations. They are the popular choice for outdoor conditions that depend on a machine 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. Regular refresher training courses should be taken by the operators so as to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
When learning to operate a rough terrain lift truck, the initial step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training includes information about the machinery that the driver would be utilizing. Details such as lifting capacities and how to refuel the lift truck are talked about. Safety tips are really important to understand before operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, although, they do state that both written and oral exams may be part of the training process.
Supervised Driving
The next step in rough terrain lift truck training involves supervised driving, like when someone learns to drive a passenger car. The operator must learn how to drive the particular type of rough terrain lift truck that they would drive in the workplace. Moreover, they have to practice operating this type of forklift in an environment which closely replicates the situations wherein they will be driving. Some of the other conditions covered in training include handling vehicle traffic, pedestrians and structures nearby.
Certification
The supervisor could certify the driver for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether an operator is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck. 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 driver the certification. Because work environments vary, the certifications are not transferable; therefore, operators should be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are some extremely important safety problems connected with operating a forklift. Operators need to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits can actually save lives at the end of the day. Also, much less damage to the work environment, the machine itself or the products happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.