Do you still need a Forklift Licence and training if you only use the forklift periodically?

Even if you only use the forklift periodically, you still need to have training. When it comes to the workplace, it is not the police that govern it but the HSE. You could say they have more authority the police themselves.  HSE has a lot of power to enforce rules and regulations.  When it comes to the rules and regulations of forklift truck training, employers can look at the Approved Code of Practice. (ACOP) L117.

 Whose responsibility is it to provide this training?

The ACOP L117 (32) states that employers have an obligation to provide basic training.

‘Employers should not allow anyone to operate, even on a very occasional basis, lift trucks within the scope of this ACOP who have not satisfactorily completed basic training and testing as described in this ACOP, except for those undergoing such training under adequate supervision.’

The problem is that if there is an accident (accidents can happen and are very common in the workplace). The HSE would most likely question why adequate training has not been provided for the employees.  This not only puts you at risk as the employer but also the operators.

Furthermore, operator training can only be carried out by instructors that have themselves undergone appropriate training in instructional techniques and skills. 

What Makes an Instructor Competent?

Instructors must train operators on the lift truck types that they have been trained on. Instructors must also have sufficient industrial experience to enable them to put their instructions into context for the candidates. Adequate knowledge of the working environment will be needed to pass to the candidate.

The basic training should NOT be carried out whilst the employees are carrying out day to day duties. This will distract the attention and operators must be fully engaged due to the nature of the course. 

Furthermore, training must also be largely practical in nature to ensure the experience of operators on the course. Much like a regular driving test-it will include elements of theory which will outline the regulations set by the HSE.

The basic training must be carried out on the lift truck the operator will be using in the workplace. If not, a conversion course must be undertaken (reach, counter balance etc). 

Employers should also consider conversion courses when the truck size and weight has significantly altered to make sure their operators training is up to date and they understand the weight loads.

Why Do You Need Training If You Only Use The Forklift Periodically.

The amount of times you operate the forklift on a daily, weekly or yearly basis is irrelevant. If there is an accident the employer will most likely be held responsible is no training has been given. Remember the quality and competence of the training will also be reviewed. Training by a competent instructor is the best for your company. It not only ensures you are keeping up with your responsibilities but it dramatically reduces the chance of accidents as the operator has the key fundamentals for safe operations on the forklift,

For further information on this, you can download the ACOP L117 from the government website