Rough Terrain Lift Truck Training
Normally used on construction locations and on forestry and logging projects, Class VII or rough terrain lift trucks is a popular alternative for many outdoor conditions that require a machinery to run on uneven ground. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA states that drivers have to receive classroom style training or lecture in addition to supervised driving training. Periodic refresher training courses should be taken by the drivers so as to keep them in top form.
Classroom or Lecture Training
When learning to operate a rough terrain lift truck, the first step is taking classroom type of instruction or lecture. This training consists of information about the machinery that the driver will be utilizing. Specifics like how to refuel the lift truck and lifting capacities are discussed. Safety tips are 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 can 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 drive a passenger car. The driver is required to learn how to operate the specific kind of rough terrain forklift that they will operate in the workplace. Additionally, they should practice operating this forklift in an environment that closely replicates the conditions wherein they would be driving. Several of the other situations covered in training comprise handling pedestrians, nearby structures and vehicle traffic.
Certification
After a supervisor determines that a driver is capable of safely operating a rough terrain lift truck, the supervisor may certify the driver for that workplace. The operator's certification is kept in the personnel file of the operator. 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; thus, drivers need to be re-certified again in the new environment. Typically, training passes faster after the operator has been certified the first time.
There are some extremely 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 can save lives at the end of the day. In addition, much less damage to the products, the work environment or the machinery itself happens when operators are working at the top of their game.