A forklift license comes after completing training in forklift operation. While it is not a legal requirement, it can make a person more employable and can make a business more reputable.
Comprehensive training can also ensure that all forklift operators and employees are well-versed in health and safety regulations, including the safe handling of a forklift truck and counterbalance forklift. This reduces the risk of accidents and injury, meaning that businesses can see an increase in productivity.
It also increases morale when forklift drivers are more competent and more confident when it comes to operating. Without having to constantly ask for help and guidance, colleagues are less likely to have disgruntled relationships or thin patience.
A forklift license, beyond making a business more reputable and safe, can give an employee the edge they need on promotions, new jobs, and managerial positions. But it can also help ease workplace tensions when there is a designated person working on the forklift who knows exactly what they’re doing.
How long does a forklift license last?
There’s not really an official license for forklift driving. The license that you’ll be given at the end of forklift driving training is more a certificate of competence to prove to future employers and customers that you have undergone an accredited course.
If you can’t prove to an employer that you have up-to-date training in the operation of a forklift, then you may be required to undergo training to show that they’ve done their due diligence. Employers are at risk of liability for accidents caused by forklift drivers who aren’t properly trained, so it’s vital that you know exactly when your license (or certificate of competence) expires.
These usually last up to three years. Generally, employers will not accept certification that is older than this to make sure that their staff’s training is current and reliable. While this may be frustrating, many companies that offer forklift training also offer one-day refresher courses for those who need to renew their license.
You should also be aware that some models of forklifts and work environments can change over time and this means that you’ll need to keep your license updated regularly.
For example, if you received training five years ago, the forklift truck models will probably have changed since then and it’s crucial that you’re trained on the new model. It will also mean that your training will be out of date for the warehouse, so it will probably no longer be in line with the current standard practice and law of operating in a busy workplace.
What are the best things about being a forklift driver?
There are many great things about being a forklift driver, including more stability when it comes to a career. As well as having proof of your competency and expertise when it comes to operating a forklift, you’ll develop vital skills that will stick with you.
They’re more employable
Forklift drivers have a license and training that gives them an edge when it comes to applying for jobs. When employers are hiring forklift drivers, they don’t want to hire someone who isn’t trained, they want someone who can walk into the workplace and get started right away.
Besides being trained in a specific field, forklift drivers also develop transferable skills that can help them in all forms of the job role. You’ll develop patience that comes from working with any machine as well as adaptability that will give you that advantage when going for job interviews.
They improve safety in the workplace
Forklift training helps to educate drivers on health and safety regulations as well as the correct driving manoeuvres, holds, and lifts. This means that you’ll be helping to minimise the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.
There is nothing worse than a forklift driver who hasn’t been properly trained. They’re at risk of causing accidents, putting their employer at risk of liability, and of holding up productivity in the workplace. It’s vital to any business to keep safety a number one priority in a high-risk environment, such as a warehouse floor using heavy operating equipment.
They make a business reputable and trustworthy
When a business only hires trained forklift drivers, it shows customers and clients that they care about what they’re doing and that they care about the wellbeing of their staff. Not only does it make a business more reputable in the industry as an expert in the field, but it also makes them trustworthy to customers.
For all of your fork truck training, hiring and servicing needs, get in touch with Fork Truck Direct