Author: Shane Richardson

Can you Drive Forklifts on Public Roads?

Posted on by Shane Richardson

Primarily, forklifts operate within closed areas such as warehouses and factories. However, sometimes, a forklift may need to travel on a public road to transport goods to another site or to unload at a loading dock. It is legal for forklifts to operate on a public road, provided they adhere to legislative guidelines. Our comprehensive blog will guide you through the rules and regulations when driving your forklift on a public highway.

Forklifts are road legal, granted specific requirements are followed:

  1. If you plan to operate your forklift on a public road, you must register the vehicle with the DVLA, ensuring it is taxed and insured. The Vehicle Excise and Registration Act (1994) declares that all motorised vehicles must be registered, taxed, insured, and have a valid licence plate to operate on public roads. If you are driving an electric-powered forklift, you must tax it under the electric vehicle tax.
  2. Drivers must be fully qualified to drive a forklift by completing a forklift operator training course and should possess a full UK driving licence. The minimum age to drive a forklift is 16, but there may be age restrictions depending on the weight of a forklift when fully loaded; a supervisor should check these regulations before assigning a driver to a forklift.
  3. To drive on a public road, operators must be sure that the road is fully lit and that the forklift has an amber beacon of light that flashes overhead when the vehicle’s speed does not exceed 25mph.
  4. For your forklift to conform to government legislation for public road use, you must have evidence of the age of the vehicle, vehicle type approval, and a valid test certificate. Failure to comply with government regulations will result in a fine.

Distance Regulations

Travelling Short Distances (Less than 1000 yards)

If you are travelling less than 1000 yards in your forklift in one go, your vehicle will be classed as a ‘work truck’; in this case, it is exempt from the Road Vehicles Regulations. However, your vehicle must still be insured and registered. For example, if you are using public roads to transport goods to another facility less than 1000 yards away, your vehicle will be classed as a ‘work truck.’ Even if your forklift travels less than 1000 yards, you must still have a full UK licence and accredited training.

Travelling Longer Distances (Over 1000 yards)

Forklifts that travel further than 1000 yards in one go will not be classed as a ‘work truck’ and will be required to comply with the Road Vehicle Regulations. The forklift will be taxed and licenced based on its weight. If the total weight of the vehicle exceeds 3500kg, then it will be classed as a HGV, anything less, and it will be classed as a light goods vehicle. 

How Do I Register My Forklift for Road Use?

Your forklift needs to be registered with the DVLA. Request a V55/5 form online, fill it out and post it back along with your vehicle documentation. Depending on the type of forklift you have will determine what documentation you are required to submit. In this case, it may be beneficial to contact the DVLA and find out exactly what documentation you need so that the process is not held up. The standard information you need to provide includes:

  • A copy of your driving licence
  • A certificate of insurance
  • A valid test certificate
  • A NOVA Form

Forklifts on Public Roads FAQs

Can I drive a forklift without training?

Most employers will require forklift operators to hold a qualification for forklift training. This certification is required to ensure that operators know how to operate a forklift safely and effectively. There are many courses available that only take a few days to complete depending on the level of training you require.

Does a forklift need to be insured?

A forklift must be insured if it is being operated on public roads and in public spaces. Even when operating a forklift on private property, you should consider taking out some form of insurance due to the possibility of an accident.

Can a banned driver drive a forklift?

If you are banned from driving, you will not be able to drive a forklift on public roads. In order to register your forklift for road use, you need to provide a copy of your UK driving licence.

Forklift Training for Public Roads

HL Training can provide operators with a range of training courses that will allow them to drive a forklift not only on their business premises but also on public roads. Forklift training is essential for anyone operating a forklift. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, our courses can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to safely and efficiently drive a forklift on a public road. We are a trusted provider of forklift training. Our team will gladly help with any enquiries you may have about the level of training you will need, so do not hesitate to contact us today.

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Introducing the Dante Customer Accounts System for 2024!

Posted on by Shane Richardson

 

Take control of your bookings, courses, and training reports for delegates through our innovative customer account system, powered by dante.co.uk.

This exceptional service is available at a cost of £20+VAT per user per month, billed annually.

BOOKINGS
– used to view or manage current & past bookings


The below image displays a TEST booking, prices are NOT reflective of any courses available through HL Training online booking system.

COURSES – used to view all courses for delegates at your company

You can even Delegates icon to see candidates, and their current status e.g. Confirmed, Passed, Failed etc.

TRAINING REPORT – used to run a report for delegates training at your company

This shows the below screen. Items are NOT clickable – however you can search for candidates but first name, surname. You can also filter by start and end date of courses.

EDIT PROFILE – used to update your company details, such as address and invoice information

For further details, kindly reach out to [email protected] via email.

 

Who Can and Can’t Drive a Forklift

Posted on by Shane Richardson

In the dynamic world of forklift operation, safety is paramount. Understanding who can and can’t operate a forklift and the challenges each individual may face is vital to ensuring the smooth running of a business. This blog looks at the guidelines surrounding forklift operation for these individuals and how we can help ensure both safety and efficiency for these individuals. 

  • At What Age Can You Drive a Forklift?
  • Can You Drive a Forklift If You Are Deaf?
  • Can You Drive a Forklift If You Are Visually Impaired?
  • Can You Drive a Forklift If You Have Epilepsy?
  • I’m Pregnant, Can I Drive a Forklift?
  • Other Reasons You Can’t Drive a Forklift
  • I Meet The Requirements, How Do I Get Trained To Drive a Forklift?

At What Age Can You Drive a Forklift?

Forklift operators need to be at least minimum school-leaving age. This means in the UK, anyone over the age of 16 can drive a forklift truck. However, most companies will not train anyone under the age of 17, and some employers will only hire people aged over 18 due to health and safety regulations. 

People aged between 16 and 18 are classed as young people. This means if a young person is employed, a great amount of risk assessment is needed to ensure they are working in a safe environment. For example, a risk assessment must take into account the young person’s psychological and physical immaturity as well as inexperience.

Additionally, before hiring a young person, their maturity and competence must be taken into account to guarantee the safety of other staff and the young person themself. The level of supervision a young person may need will be based on these factors. 

Full training must also be provided to ensure they understand how a forklift operates and the rules surrounding driving a forklift. All training must be to the highest standard following ACOP L117. 

Can You Drive a Forklift If You Are Deaf?

There is a certain level of hearing you need to operate a forklift, as you may need to listen out for any obstructions or dangers when driving the forklift. Furthermore, you may need to follow instructions that are given verbally. However, this does not mean that if you are deaf, you are unable to drive a forklift. 

In some cases, getting a doctor’s approval or using a hearing aid is sufficient to guarantee that you are able to drive a forklift safely. Employers may have to amend their everyday working procedures to enable deaf forklift drivers to do their jobs efficiently. For example, using hand signals may be one way to mitigate any challenges. 

Can You Drive a Forklift If You Are Visually Impaired?

The general consensus is the rules for driving on public roads are applied to driving a forklift. In terms of being visually impaired, the same rules apply. If you are visually impaired, but this can be corrected by wearing glasses, you must wear your glasses when operating a forklift. Additionally, if you are completely blind in one eye, you may need to be checked to see if you are still able to see hazards in your peripheral vision. 

This is not just applicable to people who are visually impaired, however. It is recommended that anyone who is required to drive a forklift should have their peripheral vision and depth perception tested to ensure they are able to operate a forklift safely. 

Can You Drive a Forklift If You Have Epilepsy?

As with visual impairment, the same rules that apply to driving on public roads apply to operating a forklift. If you have epilepsy but your seizures are under control, then you may be able to drive a forklift. If you have a singular seizure, you can operate a forklift from 6 months after the seizure, given that there have been no other seizures since. If you have had more than one seizure, you can operate a forklift 12 months after your last seizure. 

There are some deviations from this rule, though. For example, if you have seizures in your sleep or seizures that don’t affect your consciousness, you may still be able to operate a forklift. You should follow the advice of your doctor before attempting to drive a forklift.  

I’m Pregnant, Can I Drive a Forklift?

It is not recommended that you drive a forklift whilst pregnant. This is because forklifts can sometimes emit whole-body vibrations. This can be harmful to pregnant women as prolonged exposure to being shaken or jolted can cause back pain and increase the chance of a miscarriage. Any activities that shock or jolt the abdomen also increase the chance of a premature birth. 

Employers should accommodate pregnant employees by offering them alternative work if their primary role is to operate forklifts. It is also advised more breaks should be given to pregnant women as they are prone to sickness, fatigue, and other pregnancy symptoms. 

Reasons You Can’t Drive a Forklift

It may seem obvious, but there are other occasions where you should not operate a forklift, such as when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Driving a forklift requires all your attention, just like driving a car does, so the same rules for driving under the influence apply to this situation. 

All forklift operators should be trained to a high standard, be healthy, and not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Operators should be well-versed in how their particular forklift works to ensure other employees are working in a safe environment. 

I Meet The Requirements, How Do I Get Trained To Drive a Forklift?

Do you meet the requirements for a forklift operator and want to start your training? At HL Training, you can become an accredited forklift operator to enhance your workforce’s skills. We offer professional on-site and in-house forklift training endorsed by the UK’s leading accrediting bodies. Contact our team by either calling us at 0117 952 5625 or filling out our online form to start enhancing your skills today.  

Who Can Drive a Forklift FAQs

Do forklift truck drivers require a medical examination? 

It is recommended forklift drivers undergo a medical examination as being a forklift operator requires handling heavy loads. Employees at the age of 40 should be medically screened in five-year intervals until the age of 65. Any operators over 65 should be screened annually to ensure their physical health is maintained. 

What qualifications do you need to be a forklift driver?

You do not need a driving license to operate a forklift truck, but there are some other requirements. For example, you must be over the age of 16 and be fully trained. It is recommended you are trained by professionals on an accredited course to ensure you have the highest standard of training and you gain accreditation once you have completed the course. 

Can you drive a forklift truck on the road?

You can drive a forklift on the road, but you require a driving license since you will be driving on public roads. This also means rules and regulations regarding driving on the road also apply, such as eyesight rules, drunk driving is prohibited, and the use of seatbelts is required. 

Related Articles 

Do You Need a Forklift Licence? Spoiler: It Doesn’t Exist! 

A Guide to Forklift Types

The Biggest Do’s and Don’ts of Forklift Safety

How to Become a Forklift Instructor

Posted on by Shane Richardson
forklift instructor

Are you a forklift operator exploring your next career step? Or a business owner assessing the merits of in-house forklift training? At HL Training, we’re here to guide you through becoming a certified forklift instructor. In this guide, we’ll explore the role of a forklift instructor and why it might be right for you or your business. We also delve into the essential skills needed for success in this role and outline the necessary training and requirements. 

In this guide:

What is a forklift instructor?

A forklift instructor is a certified professional responsible for training and educating individuals in the safe and efficient operation of forklifts. Their role is pivotal in promoting workplace safety, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and improving overall productivity.

Instructors are well-versed in forklift principles, teaching learners how to operate these powerful machines with precision. They create and deliver comprehensive training programs that cover everything from the fundamentals of forklift operations to advanced handling techniques.

A significant part of their role involves assessing and evaluating trainees to identify areas needing improvement and providing constructive feedback. They also design lesson plans, conduct classroom and practical sessions, and administer both written and practical examinations.

Forklift instructors play a critical role in shaping competent forklift operators who can navigate various challenges in warehouse, construction, and logistics environments. Ultimately, their mission is to ensure that all forklift operators are well-trained, safety-conscious, and capable of performing their duties effectively, reducing workplace accidents and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Why become a forklift instructor

Accredited forklift instructor

Are you a talented forklift operator looking for your next career step?

Becoming an accredited forklift instructor offers a fulfilling and secure career path. It allows you to share your expertise, enhance workplace safety, and contribute to a smoother, more efficient operation. In this role, you’ll not only deepen your own knowledge and skills but also enjoy the satisfaction of mentoring others. Moreover, the demand for qualified forklift instructors remains consistently high across various industries, ensuring long-term job stability. It’s a profession that combines personal growth with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on workplace safety and productivity.

In-house forklift instructor

While hiring external forklift operator training services is an excellent option, there are solid reasons for businesses to consider in-house training. Accredited forklift operator training equips your team to handle various manual handling challenges, but the training costs can accumulate over time. Once your need for operator training reaches a certain scale or frequency, having an in-house forklift operator trainer can become a cost-effective choice. However, you will need to train forklift trainers to deliver in-house training. The initial investment in forklift instructor training can yield substantial savings in the long run, particularly if there’s a consistent demand within your organisation for forklift operator training.

In short, investing in forklift instructor training can save you money on forklift operator training in the future. 

Who is a good candidate for forklift instructor training?

While a forklift instructor certainly needs a high level of operating ability with the specific category of lift truck they will train on, expertise in operating alone is insufficient for becoming a forklift instructor. Proficiency as a forklift operator is a fundamental requirement, but not all skilled operators can effectively transition into the role of a trainer. To be a strong candidate for providing forklift training, individuals should possess a range of additional skills and traits, including:

  • Strong Communication Skills: Forklift instructors must excel in precise communication, as they need to convey technical information to individuals with varying levels of experience and skill. Effective communication is crucial in this role.
  • Analytical Skills: These skills are vital for assessing candidates and identifying areas where additional support is needed to close skill gaps on an individual basis.
  • Good Literacy Skills: Whether it’s creating written lesson plans, composing progress reports for candidates, or delving into written reports and informational materials, forklift instructors regularly rely on their literacy skills.
  • Presentation Skills: Forklift instructors should feel comfortable presenting in diverse settings, including classrooms and work environments. They must also be capable of delivering both theoretical and practical lessons effectively.

In essence, being a forklift trainer entails more than just technical expertise; it demands a well-rounded skill set that encompasses communication, analysis, literacy, and presentation abilities to effectively educate and assess forklift operators.

Forklift instructor prerequisites: Forklift operator training

To become a forklift instructor you will need to undergo and successfully pass forklift instructor training. These training courses have prerequisites and require a level of operator proficiency with the type of forklift you intend to instruct on. You must have earned or refreshed your basic operator training certificate for the relevant truck type within 6 months of your instructor training course start date. If you have a basic operator certificate for another truck type you may undertake a conversion course to meet the instructor training requirements. 

Forklift instructor training

Accredited forklift instructor training

After obtaining your basic training certificate, the next step is enrolling in an accredited forklift instructor course. A comprehensive course will delve into the fundamental principles of forklift truck operations and industry codes of practice. It will equip you with the essential skills required for the instructional aspect of the role, too. Throughout the course, you’ll gain insights into various teaching methods, lesson types, and the creation of lesson plans for both classroom and practical settings. Additionally, you’ll cover instructional techniques, skills assessment, and ongoing evaluation processes.

In-house forklift instructor training

For in-house instructor roles there are non-accredited in-house forklift instructor training courses available. This is the perfect training for those wishing to train company employees and issue in-house certificates. Our in-house instructor training for example will prepare you to conduct in-house training and skills assessments. To enrol on HL Training’s in-house forklift instructor training you must:

  • Be a certified counterbalance or reach truck operator (dated within 12 months of the course start date)
  • Have 6 months operating experience

Forklift Instructor FAQs

What qualifications do I need to become a forklift instructor?

To become an accredited forklift instructor you must complete an accredited forklift instructor course. You must hold a basic operator certificate for the relevant truck type to enrol into an accredited instructor training. 

What basic operator certificate do I need for instructor training?

Our  forklift instructors course is based on instructing on a counterbalance forklift truck therefore you must hold a basic operator certificate for counterbalance forklifts to enrol. If you have completed operator training for a different truck type, you can complete a conversion course to meet the instructor training prerequisites.

Do I need to complete separate instructor training for each forklift truck type?

No, our accredited forklift instructor training course enables you to instruct on any machine you hold certificates for including certificates earned after completing the course. 

Become a forklift instructor with HL Training

Ready to become an accredited forklift instructor? HL Training offers top-tier 10-day instructor training programs accredited by ITSSAR, AITT, and RTITB. Our forklift instructor training courses equip you with the expertise to excel in this rewarding role. You’ll have the qualifications to become an accredited ITSSAR, AITT, or RTITB instructor upon completion. Or learn everything you need to know to train your own team with our non-accredited in-house forklift instructor training. 

To find out more, get in touch with our expert forklift training team. Give us a call today!

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