Operating a forklift is a responsibility that requires proper training and certification to ensure workplace safety. There are different types of forklift licences, and the specific training course your operators require depends on the type of forklift they will operate. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) mandates that forklift operators are formally trained and certified to operate a specific lift truck category in the UK.
As a leading provider of forklift trucks and materials handling equipment in the North West, TAG Forklifts offers comprehensive forklift training options, from novice operator instruction to experienced refresher programmes, to prepare your staff for safe and efficient forklift operation.
Types of Forklift Training Courses
The training that operators get is specific to that forklift type, meaning their certification allows them to drive that particular forklift only. If operators wish to drive a different type, they’ll have to get training again, as each forklift has its own unique skill set to master.
The main types of forklift training include:
Counterbalance Forklift Training
One of the most common types of forklift training is for counterbalance trucks, also known as front-loading forklifts. These forklifts have rear-mounted counterweights to offset the load, allowing them to lift hefty goods. The counterbalance training course covers:
- Operating procedures
- Pre-shift inspections
- Load safety
- Refuelling/recharging
- Crucial forklift driving skills like steering, manoeuvring in aisles and navigating slopes
Reach Truck Training
Reach trucks are the undisputed champions of tight warehouse spaces. These specialised forklifts extend their forks forward, allowing them to reach and retrieve pallets from high racking or terrace-stack them efficiently. Reach truck training looks at:
- Stabilisation techniques
- Calculating residual capacities
- Minimising truck deflection
- Operating unique controls
Pallet Truck Training
While not as complex as counterbalance or reach trucks, pallet trucks (also called pump trucks) still necessitate proper training, especially for operators working in confined spaces. As many warehouses and retail spaces use them extensively, the training course emphasises:
- Best practices for manoeuvring and positioning pallets
- Conducting pre-shift checks
- Navigating obstructions, slopes and pedestrian traffic areas
Main Forklift Training Levels
While operators need to get training for each forklift type, these training courses are available at different levels, including:
Novice Training
This is the most comprehensive training programme, designed for individuals without any experience operating forklift trucks. A novice forklift training course typically covers all the essential aspects of operating forklift trucks responsibly, including:
- Forklift parts and functionality
- Pre-operation checks
- Safe driving practices
- Load handling and stability
- Warehouse safety regulations
- Lifting techniques
- Refuelling procedures (applicable to certain forklift types)
Refresher Training
This training is designed for operators who already have a valid forklift licence but may need to refresh their knowledge and practical skills. Refresher training courses are typically shorter than novice ones and focus on safety protocols, hazard identification and practical skills assessments.
Conversion Training
If an operator is already certified for one type of truck handling equipment but needs credentials to use additional types, conversion training is the way to go. Instead of taking an entire comprehensive course again, conversion training focuses on the specific operational differences between vehicle classes. This allows experienced operators to rapidly expand their driving licence qualifications.
eTruck Learning by TAG Forklifts
TAG Forklifts is revolutionising forklift training with its new eTruck Learning system for counterbalance and reach truck operators. This blended learning approach combines online theoretical instruction with hands-on practical evaluation at TAG’s accredited training centre. The online modules allow trainees to learn independently, while in-person sessions focus on mastering operational skills under expert supervision.
The benefits of this include reduced staff downtime for training, consistent standardised learning, personalised hands-on coaching, streamlined certification management and flexible refresher courses as needed.
Cultivate Confidence with TAG Forklift Training
Forklifts are powerful machines that demand skilled, responsible operators to prevent accidents and incidents. Proper training is essential to develop the knowledge and capabilities for safe materials handling.
No matter what type of forklift training your workforce requires, TAG Forklifts has the expertise to provide professional, RTITB-accredited instruction. From novice and conversion courses to specialised and refresher programmes, proper forklift operator certification promotes a culture of health and safety in your workplace. Contact us today to learn more about our available training options.
