Thorough and adequate lift truck training is essential to help run a smooth, safe and efficient workplace. However, did you know there are three different stages of training? This is often overlooked by many employers and can be a factor in many workplace accidents. Sometimes operators miss out on essential elements of lift truck training, due to the three stages of training not being completed. The three different stages of training are basic, specific and familiarisation, these are explained in more detail in the HSE ACoP L117 “Rider Operated Lift Trucks. Operator Training and Safe Use.” It is important to note that whilst the ACoP is just guidance and advice it is designed to keep you within the scope of the current laws and legislation, for example Regulation 9 of the “Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998”. It is also important to understand that the three stages of training may not be exclusive to rider-operated lift trucks. They are also relative to other types of work equipment training and plant for example.
- 360 excavator training (digger training)
- Overhead crane training (Gantry crane training)
- Abrasive wheel training
- Dumper truck training
Plus, many more types of work equipment. Let’s have a look at the basics of each stage and the types of things they should include.
Basic training
Basic training is the starting point for any new operator who wants to gain the correct skills and knowledge to help them understand…well the basics. That is, the basics of how to safely and efficiently operate the lift truck, i.e. mount and dismount safely, correct starting procedures, drive and manoeuvre the lift truck around and how to correctly lift and transport palletised loads. This stage will also make the operators aware of certain risks that using a lift truck creates as well as how to control and help reduce the risk. This stage, so far as reasonably practicable, must be completed away from live work in an area set aside for this purpose. Which is why a training centre is preferable, like our own shown here. Of course we can complete this stage of training at your own premises if it is easier for the customer. This stage of training will conclude with testing of the operator’s knowledge of the machine’s operation and safety as well as their practical ability whilst using the machine.
Specific training
Specific training is usually completed after the basic training, however it can be combined or integrated with it. This stage of training should still be carried out away from live work where possible, mainly to minimise risk and distraction. It will include things like the use of any specific attachments the operator may use whilst on the job at their own workplace. Also, if there are multiple lift trucks or machines that fall within the same category, but have different controls, then this will also be included in this stage. Machine specific inspection as per manufacturers operator’s handbook that can be reasonably carried out by the operator will be completed during this stage. This stage will also include practice in operating the truck in conditions that they may find at work for example through gangways or cold stores or even operating on rough terrain. Information about site rules like speed limits or emergency procedures and the use of PPE required in your workplace. Practice loading specific types of vehicles or loading into different types of specific storage equipment and the use of the lift truck fitted with a working platform.
Familiarisation training
Familiarisation training is the third and final stage of training. This stage of training should be carried out during live work on the job by someone with enough knowledge and experience within the workplace usually a supervisor or manager. This final stage is usually closely supervised use of the lift truck or machine under normal working conditions applying what has been learnt in the first two stages. It can also include familiarisation of the site layout, emergency procedures and anything that was not practical to teach off the job.
All three stages are very important for maintaining a safe workplace and ensuring employers adhere to their legal duties regarding operator training. For any more information or any questions please call us on 01256 889489 or for more ways to contact us look here.