Forklifts are extremely valuable tools utilised in hundreds of businesses, from retail and wholesale to freight and transportation. But not just anyone can operate a forklift; in order to use one in the UK, you must have a certain licence.
What is Forklift Licence
Depending on the licensing you have obtained and the training you have completed, a forklift licence, also known as a FLT licence, is evidence of your competence and competency to operate a certain forklift truck.
By law, employers must make sure that the people who operate their forklifts are qualified to do so, including getting a forklift licence.
Categories Types of a Forklift Licence
Articulated Forklift Training
For convenience of loading and unloading in tight locations, this kind of forklift features a portion that swings to the side.
Counterbalance Forklift Training
This type of forklift is best suited for larger, open spaces; it can handle huge loads and has a large turning radius.
Reach Forklift Training
This kind of forklift, as its name implies, is designed to reach items that are stacked high and is typically found in warehouses.
Multi-directional Forklift Training
Multi Directional forklifts are similar to side loaders in that they can operate both indoors and outdoors and drive in any direction.
How to Get a Forklift Licence
In the UK, obtaining a forklift licence is not open to everyone and requires a number of procedures. It may take some time to complete educational courses if you want to be able to operate a forklift and learn how to do so in real-world situations. As a result, only take these actions if you are serious about getting your licence.
Find an Accredited Training Provider
First and foremost, it’s imperative to choose a training provider authorised by the Road Transport Industry Training Board (RTITB). Seek out training providers approved by accrediting organisations like the National Plant Operators Registration Scheme (NPORS) and the Accrediting Bodies Association for Workplace Transport (ABA). These organisations make sure the instruction satisfies the requirements.
Choose the Appropriate Course
Once a Forklift training provider has been found, select the course that is right for the kind of forklift you plan to use. Different types of forklifts are available, including counterbalance, reach, and rough terrain models.
Attend the Training Course
The training session, which usually consists of both theoretical and practical components, should then be attended. Essential forklift operations subjects, including safety protocols, laws, and best practices, are covered in the academic section.
During the practical training, participants will have practical experience using a forklift for manoeuvring, load handling, and safety demonstrations.
Complete the Training and Assessment
Following the course, tests must be taken to gauge your knowledge and proficiency. Typically, this entails a written exam to gauge your comprehension of the material and a practical exam to gauge your proficiency using the forklift safely and effectively.
Obtain the Forklift Licence
You will receive a certificate proving your proficiency with a forklift after passing the training and exams. This licence attests to your ability to operate the particular model of forklift that was the subject of the training.
About Forklift Certification
Your competence behind the wheel is confirmed by your forklift certification. You pass the required written and practical exams to obtain this certificate, which attests to your proficiency.
The regulatory agency in charge of this kind of job and one that establishes requirements for forklift training is the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Additionally, it gives accrediting bodies the authority to accredit educators. A forklift licence is another name for a forklift certificate.
