Sadly in the UK forklift operators are injuring themselves, and their co-workers, because they have not been given the basic skills to operate a forklift truck safely. Every year there are a number of fatalities, serious injuries, and thousands of reportable incidents, concerning forklift trucks. Lift trucks are safe pieces of equipment, when used by trained operators but can be lethal in un-trained hands. In view of this, UK legislation inc:

• The Heath and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

require forklift operators to be suitably trained.

Michael Spiller Training Services offer on-site training courses for a wide range of lift trucks inc:

• Counterbalance lift trucks
• Reach trucks
• Combi trucks
• Pedestrian operated trucks

All training is carried out by qualified instructors, and complies with both UK and EU regulations, a nationally recognised certificate is issued on successful completion of the course.

1. Theory: All trainees must complete a 25 question theory paper, (pass mark 80%)
2. Pre Shift Checks: All trainees must be able to thoroughly check their truck for faults before operating.
3. Practical: Trainees are expected to drive the truck through a testing practical course.

All courses are based on the ITSSAR syllabus and assume a ratio of three trainees to one instructor. (For fewer trainees the times may be reduced)

• Novice: 37.5 hours or 5 days
• Experienced (un-licensed): 20 hours or 3 days
• Refresher: 1. day.