Forklift Truck Training

Forklift truck training, also known as forklift truck operator training, is specialised instruction for individuals on how to safely and effectively operate a forklift ( also called a powered industrial truck). The training includes both theoretical and practical components to ensure that operators understand the mechanics of the forklift, safe operating practices, load handling, and compliance with safety regulations.

Who Needs Forklift Training?

Forklift training is required for anyone who operates a forklift or similiar industrial trucks as part of the job. This includes warehouse workers, construction workers, dock workers, and even some retail staff handling large stock areas.



Here are the key components of forklift truck training:

1. Theory Training

Basic Principles: Understanding how a forklift works, including controls, steering, and lifting mechanisms.

Safety Regulations: Learning about UK law and regulations.

Hazard Awareness: Recognising common workplace hazards like blind spots, pedestrian areas, uneven surfaces, and load stability.

Maintenance checks: Knowing how to perform pre-use check inspections to check for mechanical issues and ensure the forklift

is in safe working condition.

 2. Practical Training

Hands-On Operation: Practicing basic manoeuvres, such as driving, turning, lifting, lowering and reversing, in a controlled environment.

Load Handling: Learning how to pick up, transport,  and stack loads safely. This includes understanding load capacity, balance, and the centre of gravity.

Specific Workplace Scenarios:

Tailoring training to specific situations the operator might encounter in the workplace, like narrow aisles, ramps, or outdoor environments.

  3. Evaluation and assessment.

Written and Practical Exams: Completing tests to demonstrate knowledge and skills. Most training courses include a written test and a practical skills test.

Certification: Upon successful completion, operators are typically issued a certification or license that allow them to operate forklifts. The certification may need to be renewed periodically, generally 3 - 5 years.

We also offer Management and Supervisors Awareness (L/Trucks) Training Course

Please see BRITTOp page for accredited courses.  

Novice - For a non competent person

Experienced - Someone who is competent, but hasn't used the equipment for some time

Conversion - For someone who is competent on on a different variant of Forklift Truck.

Refresher - For Someone who is Competent and has had previous certification but requires refreshing.