Below are some of the more frequently asked questions we have responded to, with pleasure, from some of our customers;

1. Is training required for a pedestrian operated pallet stacker?

Most definitely. All operators of self-propelled work equipment must be formally trained. Duration of training on pedestrian operated trucks, with or without a ride-on platform depends on the stacking height capability of these trucks (Low/Eye/High). Eg. High-level stacker, 3 experienced trainees = 2 days training.

2. Do certificates of training expire?

No, only the entry onto the National Operator Registration Scheme expires. Refresher training is needed every 3 years to continue on this.

3. What is the National Operator Registration Scheme?

NORS is a centralised, registration, validation and certification system for lift truck operators and other mechanical handling equipment drivers.
NORS will wipe out the fake operator certificates issued by trainers not properly accredited to RTITB, raising confidence in RTITB qualifications.

4. Is training compulsory for lift truck operators?

Yes. Required under all the following.
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974,
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998

5. If our operators have been trained on a counterbalance truck, and we later acquire a reach truck, do they need more training?

Yes. Conversion training is needed, usually 2 days for three operators.

6. Do we need to keep any records of training undertaken?

Yes. Detailed records of training should include, as a minimum, employee identification, Nature and content of training and testing, and copies of training certificates. We supply these detailed with course content and include a confidential course assessment report detailing any positive and negative operational abilities.

7. Do our Supervisors and / or Managers need training?

Yes. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, regulation 9b states that supervisors and managers of work equipment must be trained in the methods of using the equipment, and any risks and precautions to be taken.
This course is for one day, training a maximum of 12 delegates. We are accredited to run this course for you.

8. Are operators of industrial lift trucks required to undertake medicals examinations?

Existing and potential lift truck operators should be screened for fitness before employment and at five yearly intervals from age 40. The standards are those of holders of ordinary car/motorcycle driving licence.
This is a complex situation, but more advice can be found in: “at a glance”, which is available at www.dvla.gov.uk

9. Do we need to formally authorise our operators?

Yes. All operators of self-propelled work equipment must be authorised, in writing, by the employer.