Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks are normally used in forestry and logging projects and are common on construction sites. They are the popular option for outdoor settings that depend on a machinery 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. Periodic refresher training programs must be taken by the drivers so as to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to operate a rough terrain lift truck, the initial step is taking lecture or classroom type of instruction. This training consists of information about the machinery which the operator will be utilizing. Specifics like lifting capacities and how to refuel the forklift are discussed. Safety tips are important to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, they do state that oral and written 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 operate a passenger car. The driver needs to learn how to drive the specific kind of rough terrain lift truck that they would operate in the workplace. Additionally, they need to practice operating this forklift in an environment that closely replicates the conditions in which they will be driving. Some of the other situations covered in training include dealing with vehicle traffic, pedestrians and nearby structures.
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 driver 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. Since work environments vary, the certifications are not transferable; thus, operators should be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
There are a few extremely essential safety concerns 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. Moreover, much less damage to the merchandise, the work environment or the equipment itself occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.