The Benefits Of Forklift Training Courses
Forklifts are one of the simplest equipment to operate. However, taking a forklift training course is one of the most important decisions you will make as an aspiring forklift operator. This article discusses the benefits of taking a forklift training course.
Understanding The Types Of Forklifts
Forklifts are used in the agricultural, transport, warehousing and industrial sectors. As an aspiring operator, you could be in a dilemma over which forklifts you would want to operate. Typically, there are two forklift classes; order picking forklifts and forklift trucks. Order picking forklifts comprise a platform that hoists or lowers the operator. They are used in warehouses to pick orders or stack inventory. Forklift trucks are forklifts that do not fall under the order picking class. They include; side loaders, reach, counterbalance, heavy-duty, telescopic and rough terrain forklifts. Understanding the forklift classes and types enables you to decide the type of forklift training you need.
Forklift Safety
One of the challenges that untrained forklift operators face is that they do not know how to observe safety when using the forklift. As a result, they overturn the forklift or injure other people when using the equipment. Below are some safety measures you will learn during forklift training:
- How to conduct forklift inspections to ensure the equipment is safe to use. Typically, you should examine the forks, lifting mechanism, brakes, tires, wheels, fluid levels, steering, safety devices and electric system.
- Interpreting load charts to establish the forklift's weight limits. It prevents you from overloading the forklift.
- How to maintain situational awareness when using the forklift. For example, you should be aware of the blind spots.
- How to prepare the site for forklift operation. For instance, you should mark risks such as open pits and electric boxes. Moreover, you should identify a suitable operation route that improves traffic flow.
- How to keep loads stable as you use the forklift. Ideally, you should stay within the stability triangle and move at an appropriate speed to prevent sudden braking.
Licencing
You will receive a licence at the end of the forklift training course. Moreover, you need a high-risk work licence since forklift operation is considered a risky occupation. The primary advantage of licencing is that it guarantees future employers that you have the expertise needed to operate the equipment. Moreover, it prevents the employer from incurring losses in case of a forklift accident on their premises. Remember, some insurance companies will not compensate the owner if an unlicensed operator causes an accident.
For more information on a forklift training course, contact a company near you.