Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Class VII or rough terrain forklifts are usually utilized in forestry and logging projects and are common on construction locations. They are the popular alternative for outdoor conditions which depend on a machine to run on uneven ground. The OSHA or Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that operators should receive lecture or classroom style training as well as 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 drive a rough terrain lift truck, the initial step is taking lecture or classroom type of instruction. This training includes information about the machine which the operator would be using. Details such as lifting capacities and how to refuel the lift truck are talked about. Safety tips are really important to understand prior to operation. OSHA does not place a minimum time requirement on classroom training, however, they do state that both written and oral 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 drive a passenger car. The operator must learn how to operate the specific kind of rough terrain forklift which they would drive in the workplace. Moreover, they must practice operating this forklift in an environment which closely replicates the conditions in which they will be driving. Several of the other situations covered in training include dealing with nearby structures, vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
Certification
The supervisor can certify the driver for that workplace after a supervisor determines whether an operator is capable of safely driving a rough terrain lift truck. The certification for the operator can 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, drivers should be re-certified again in the new environment. Usually, training passes faster after the driver has been certified the first time.
There are a few very essential safety problems connected with driving a lift truck. Operators need to stay alert and able to drive with the utmost attention and care. Practicing good habits could really save lives at the end of the day. As well, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the machine itself occurs when drivers are working at the top of their game.