Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Rough terrain or Class VII lift trucks are usually used in logging and forestry projects and are common on construction sites. They are the popular alternative for outdoor conditions which depend on a vehicle to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that drivers should receive classroom style training or lecture as well as supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training programs are taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
The initial step is taking instruction in a lecture or classroom style. Training includes the essential information about the machinery which the driver would be working with. Specifics like for example lifting capacities and how to refuel the forklift are talked about. Safety tips are really vital to understand before 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 forklift training, quite similar to when drivers learn to operate a passenger automobile. The operator has to learn how to drive the specific type of rough terrain lift truck that they will operate in the workplace. Furthermore, they should practice operating this type of lift truck in an environment that closely replicates the conditions in which they will be driving. Several of the other situations covered in training include handling nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck, the supervisor can certify the driver for that workplace. The operator's certification is kept in the operator's 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 vary, the certifications are not transferable; thus, operators should be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes more quickly after the driver has been certified the first time.
The safety problems associated with driving a lift truck are extremely important. It is vital that drivers stay alert and drive with utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could save lives at the end of the day. As well, much less damage to the merchandise, the work environment or the equipment itself happens when drivers are working at the top of their game.