Forklifts are essential equipment in various industries, from warehousing to construction. Ensuring that forklift operators are up-to-date with their training is not just a legal requirement but also critical for maintaining workplace safety. Over time, skills can decline, regulations can change, and new equipment can emerge, making it vital to periodically refresh training.
This blog will explore the importance of forklift refresher training, who needs it, how often it’s required, and what it entails.
- What is Forklift Refresher Training?
- Why is Forklift Refresher Training Important?
- When is Forklift Refresher Training Required?
- Benefits of Forklift Training Courses
- How Long Does Refresher Forklift Training Take?
- Forklift Truck Refresher Course FAQs
What is Forklift Refresher Training?
Forklift refresher training is a course designed to update and reinforce the skills and knowledge of forklift operators who have already completed initial training. Refresher training typically covers both theoretical and practical aspects of forklift operation, focusing on accident prevention, safe driving techniques, and workplace safety procedures.
Refresher Course Content
- A review of the basics: operating principles, controls, and pre-use inspections
- Updated safety practices and accident prevention techniques
- Practical exercises that assess the operator’s current skills
- Evaluation of the operator’s performance in real-world scenarios
Why is Forklift Refresher Training Important?
Forklift refresher training is crucial for ensuring that operators maintain their competency and keep up-to-date with current safety practices and regulations.
A significant number of forklift accidents are caused by operator mistakes. These could be the result of complacency, forgotten techniques, or unfamiliarity with updated safety measures. A refresher course helps operators sharpen their skills, preventing these errors and promoting a safer work environment.
When is Forklift Refresher Training Required?
The need for a forklift operator refresher course depends on several factors, including the accrediting body and the status of your NORS registration. While ITSSAR and AITT certifications do not require mandatory refresher courses, as they remain valid indefinitely, RTITB-certified operators must complete a refresher course to renew their NORS registration. Ultimately, it is the employer’s responsibility to decide whether an operator can continue using a forklift after the expiration of their registration.
Even though refresher courses may not be mandatory, they are strongly recommended, and most employers will likely require periodic retraining. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises that refresher courses be completed every three to five years.
If you operate forklifts infrequently or have taken an extended break from using them, a refresher course is particularly beneficial for maintaining current knowledge and ensuring safe operation.
Benefits of Forklift Refresher Courses
Undergoing refresher training offers numerous benefits to both employees and employers. Some of the key advantages include:
Operators:
- Improved safety awareness and confidence
- Enhanced knowledge of the latest equipment and techniques
- Reduced risk of accidents and injuries
- Strengthened skill set
Employers:
- Compliance with health and safety laws
- Lower insurance premiums due to fewer workplace accidents
- Increased productivity and efficiency
- A safer working environment
How Long Does Refresher Forklift Training Take?
The duration of a forklift refresher course depends on the experience level of the operator and the specific requirements of the job. A refresher course takes one day, but operators that do not meet the standard may be referred for further training.
The course typically covers both theoretical knowledge and practical assessments, ensuring that participants leave fully competent and confident in their abilities.
Forklift Truck Refresher Course FAQs
Is forklift refresher training a legal requirement?
Forklift refresher training is not explicitly a legal requirement in the UK; however, it is strongly recommended by the HSE. Employers have a legal duty under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) to ensure that employees operating forklifts are trained and competent, in this case refresher training may be required to keep knowledge and skills up to date.
Can refresher training replace initial forklift operator training?
No, refresher training is only suitable for experienced operators who have already been certified and need to update their skills or knowledge to stay compliant with regulations or adapt to new equipment or working conditions.
Can forklift refresher training be done on-site?
Yes, forklift refresher training can often be done on-site at your workplace. HL Training offers a on-site option that allows operators to practise in the actual conditions they will be working in, enhancing the relevance and practicality of the training.
Choose HL Training for Your Forklift Refresher Course
Choosing the right forklift training provider is crucial to ensuring you receive a high-quality refresher course. It is vital to select a provider that is accredited by recognised bodies such as RTITB or ITSSAR, and who have a deep understanding of forklift operations and safety regulations.
Look no further than HL Training, our team of experienced forklift instructors can provide tailored refresher training courses that best suit your requirements. Whether you need in-house, on-site or online training, we can help you refresh your forklift operator knowledge.
Contact us today to learn more about the courses we offer, and explore the opportunity to become a forklift instructor with HL Training.
