What are the benefits of ongoing forklift training for you and your business?
Forklifts are among the most vital types of equipment used in factories, warehouses, and other distribution centres. A dependable solution that improves productivity and makes heavy-duty tasks far easier to perform, it’s not tricky to see why fork trucks are essential however, it is equally important that those who operate them are competent to use them. Making sure your workforce has proper forklift training is key.
While there is no official forklift driving license here in the UK, training courses are available that ensure operators have the necessary skills and experience to handle this equipment. While you might think that completing one training course in a lifetime is all an operator requires, this is far from the truth.
As a result, there are forklift training courses available for both absolute beginners and those with previous experience in operating these warehouse workhorses. Enterprises that regularly use forklifts on-site as part of their operations are advised to consider ongoing rather than one-off forklift training for their operators, as this approach can bring many benefits.
According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive’s <a href=”https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg457.htm”>(HSE)</a> guidelines certification is a legal requirement for operating a forklift. As a result, if a firm employs an unqualified operator, it is their responsibility to train them. While there is no law insisting on ongoing training, it is recommended for many reasons.
Read on as we explore forklift training in greater depth and the advantages enterprises can gain from the ongoing education of employees.
Forklift training – giving you business continuity
Knowing the best practices for safe forklift operation in a work environment is not information that you can learn once and forget about. Instead, it is an ongoing process that is constantly developing. To ensure the safest working conditions on-site and the optimum methods of operation are always used, regular forklift training is an effective choice.
By keeping training, a regular occurrence, the process is less disruptive for firms. Instead of significant driver downtime from lengthy courses, training can be broken down into smaller sessions. Operators may also retain their knowledge easier when training is provided in a manageable format.
Keeping information current
Over time, new techniques and technology are developed for forklift use. From onboard sensors and electric battery packs to more efficient ways of unloading, loading, and driving in low visibility, the best practices for using fork trucks are constantly evolving. By using an ongoing forklift training programme enterprises can ensure their operators are making the most of the latest developments in technology and new ways of thinking. Ultimately, keeping knowledge up to date will ensure employees are using forklifts using the safest and most efficient means possible.
Eradicating bad habits
It is understood that over extended periods, bad working habits can develop. Whether it’s to save time or energy, corners can get cut, and result in risk. From stock that is loaded poorly becoming damaged to worker injuries, the consequences of lazy practices can be severe.
Fortunately, ongoing training can keep your drivers constantly refreshed in the best practices for forklift operation. As a result, bad habits are less likely to take root.
Lowering insurance premiums
While it will depend on the insurance provider used, many companies find that the better trained their drivers are the lower their policy premiums are. It is understood that insurance costs are based on the level of risk involved, so improving the abilities of operators with continuous training can have a significant impact, reducing health and safety issues on site.
Enjoying the benefits of ongoing forklift training
To sum up, from a safer and more efficiently run workplace to avoiding disruption and damage, the benefits of an ongoing training programme are manifold for businesses. Business owners who fund continuing driver training are ultimately investing in their enterprise and its continuing success.
To find out more, get in touch with our team today.
