An Overview of Forklift Training in West Midlands and the UK in General
Forklift Truck (FLT) Licence Regulations UK
It’s important to note that there is no legally required Forklift Liesence in West Midlands or UK or requirement to undergo any forklift training in order to operate a forklift truck for a living.
PUWER or the Provision and Use of Work Regulations just states that operators need to be suitably trained in the use of forklift trucks but does not define the training content.
Forklift Truck Training Companies have come up with their own best practice driver training standards that are commonly known as a forklift licence.
Transport Training Accreditation
In place of any legal obligations, an accredited forklift training scheme exists. The accrediting bodies do their best to make sure that the training companies who are accredited, do actually conduct the training correctly. They outline minimum course lengths, dictate what is taught and they created both the forklift operator written and practical tests. They also monitor training companies to make sure the training is being done correctly and suitable records are being kept.
Forklift Training Instructors in West Midlands and the United Kingdom, can choose to register with any of these bodies but bear in mind it’s not compulsory for your instructor:-
- Lantra Sector Skills Council for the environmental and land-based sector
- Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register (ITSSAR) CITB
- Construction Skills National Plant Operators Registration Scheme (NPORS)
- Association of Industrial Truck Trainers (AITT)
- (RTITB) Road Transport Industry Training Board accreditation schemes and standards are guided by the Approved Code of Practice for Rider-operated lift trucks: Operator training (ACOP L117)
As a responsible employer arranging forklift truck operator training, you should bear in mind these points and make use of the UK accrediting bodies to ensure that your workplace safety training is being conducted to the correct standards.
Be aware of any providers offering one day courses. One day fork lift driver training in West Midlands is OK for refreshers with no more than three people attending.
FLT Training Options
There are several common training choices to become a forklift driver in Birmingham, West Midlands and UK.
- Beginner Training for people who have never been certified (Novice)
- Semi-Experienced for individuals who have some experience of driving a forklift but have never been certified
- Conversion Training for rider operators who have been trained on a specific type of truck and now need training on a different lift truck
- Refresher for anyone who already has a Forklift Training Certificate and needs updating to the latest UK & EU regulations
Conversion or refresher courses generally take one or two days while beginner courses may last up to five days. To ensure professional training for all operators it’s recommended that an instructor trains no more than three FLT operators in one day. Visit our forklift training courses for more information on individual courses above.
Re-training of forklift operators
Are re-tests mandatory and after how long? According to the 2005 Workplace Transport Regulations, it is mandatory to for operators to be re-tested once every three years to maintain a forklift qualification. The RTITB will contact individuals at home to advise them that refresher forklift training in West Midlands is required.
Forklift training cost in Birmingham, West Midlands will generally vary depending on the course, the FLT training provider and the course location.
Prices start from around £50 a day per person for a basic introduction up to £750 for accredited 5 day courses.
Essential Tips on choosing the best forklift training for success
When it comes to operating a forklift for a living, it is vital that you obtain professional forklift training in West Midlands. In order to be hired as a forklift operator, a basic forklift certificate of competence is required.
If you can obtain UK accredited certification and licences as a forklift operator, you can get a well-paid job driving a forklift around a commercial or industrial warehouse.
Forklift drivers are paid well compared to other vehicle operators, and you will find that working as a lift truck operator can be a rewarding way to make a living.
Do you need Forklift Truck Training in Birmingham?
Call 4KS Forklift Training on
0121 2949395