Training courses
Page 47

If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Fork-lift trucks Demonstrating adequate training of fork-lift truck operators is relatively straightforward as the Health and Safety Executive publishes an Approved Code of Practice (L117 Rider Operated Lift-trucks: Operator Training). Recognised courses must conform to this code and the HSE recognises five accrediting bodies: • The Association of Industrial Truck Trainers, which runs the Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register (ITSSAR) • The Construction Industry Training Board • Lantra National Training Organisation • The Road Transport Industry Training Board • The National Plant Operators Registration Scheme Course duration is typically f lye days for novices with a one-day refresher course at three-yearly intervals. Courses combine practical and classroom sessions, covering: • Equipment maintenance • Safety legislation • Safe loading • Practical proficiency • Manoeuvring and load handling • Accident statistics Expect to pay up to £500 (inc-VAT) per trainee for a five-day course. Successful trainees receive a training certificate, usually valid for five years. This is not a licence and is not a legal requirement for equipment operation. Lorry loader cranes As with fork-truck training there are several training accreditation bodies, including: • Construction Industry Training Board • National Plant Operators Registration Scheme • Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) However, there is no established approved code of practice specifically for lorry loader crane training.
Novice trainees will attend a four or five-day course; ALLMI also offers a twoday course for assessing experienced operators.
Trainees will complete theory and practical modules covering: • Legislation • Equipment knowledge and maintenance • Lifting attachments • Deployment of stabilisers • Preparation and operation al lifting equipment • Use of controls Training often takes place on customers' premises; charges will be per instructor day. North Cheshire Training, one of the leading independent training providers, charges £210 (ex-VAT ) a day courses are limited to a maximum of three trainees. Successful trainees will receive a certificate and, depending on the scheme, an identification card. Certificates are usually valid for five years.
As with fork-trucks, the certificate is not a legal prerequisite, but has effectively become mandatory if legal compliance is to be proven.