Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Commonly utilized on construction locations and on logging and forestry projects, Class VII or rough terrain lift trucks is a popular option for a lot of outdoor conditions that need a machine to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that operators must receive lecture or classroom style training together with supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training courses must be taken by the operators in order to keep them in top form.
Lecture or Classroom Training
When learning to drive a rough terrain lift truck, the initial step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training includes information regarding the machinery which the operator would be utilizing. Specifics like for example lifting capacities and how to refuel the lift truck are talked about. Safety tips are really vital to understand before operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, although, they do state that oral and written 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 car. The driver needs to learn how to operate the particular kind of rough terrain forklift which they will drive in the workplace. Additionally, they have to practice operating this kind of lift truck in an environment which closely replicates the conditions wherein they will be driving. Some of the other situations covered in training include handling pedestrians, nearby structures and vehicle traffic.
Certification
The supervisor can 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; hence, operators have to be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes more quickly after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are some very vital safety issues connected with operating a lift truck. Operators need 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. Also, much less damage to the goods, the work environment or the machine itself happens when operators are working at the top of their game.