Rough Terrain Forklift Training
Normally used on construction sites and on logging and forestry projects, Class VII or rough terrain forklifts is a popular choice for many outdoor conditions which require a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that operators have to receive classroom style training or lecture along with supervised driving training. Regular refresher training courses are taken by the drivers in order to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain lift truck, the initial step is taking lecture or classroom type of instruction. This training consists of information about the equipment which the operator will be using. Details like how to refuel the lift truck and lifting capacities are discussed. Safety tips are really essential 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
Supervised driving is the next step in the rough terrain lift truck training, quite similar to when drivers learn to drive a passenger automobile. The operator needs to learn how to operate the specific type of rough terrain lift truck which they will drive in the workplace. Furthermore, they should 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 handling pedestrians, structures nearby and vehicle traffic.
Certification
The supervisor can 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 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 operator the certification. As work environments differ, the certifications are not transferable; thus, operators must be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
The safety concerns associated with driving a lift truck are really important. It is important that drivers stay alert and drive with utmost care and attention. Practicing good habits could really save lives at the end of the day. What's more, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the equipment itself happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.