Frequently Asked Questions
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We understand that choosing the correct training course can sometimes be confusing, and you may have a few questions along the way. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common queries about our training programs, certification, and requirements.
If you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, feel free to contact us - we’re always happy to help!
General Course Information
Do you provide on-site forklift training?
Yes. All training is delivered at your premises using your equipment and normal working environment, helping operators develop practical skills in real workplace conditions.
Do you train individuals or businesses?
Our training is primarily designed for employers and their staff. Courses are delivered on-site for businesses across Hampshire and surrounding areas.
Can training be carried out using our own equipment?
Yes. Training is carried out using your own equipment wherever practical, helping ensure operators are trained on the machines they actually use.
Can you help us choose the right training course?
Yes. We can advise based on your equipment, operators, and workplace requirements, then recommend the most suitable training course.
Can you help identify the correct forklift truck category?
Yes. If you are unsure which category of truck you have, we can usually identify it from the make, model, or a photograph of the truck and data plate.
Can forklift training be carried out around our shift patterns or operations?
Yes. Training can often be scheduled around shift patterns, deliveries, production activities, and other operational requirements where suitable facilities and safe working conditions are available.
Training Levels and Course Types
What training level do my operators need?
This depends on their current experience. Operators may require novice, experienced, refresher, or conversion training depending on their previous training and the type of equipment being used.
Do operators need training for every type of forklift?
Yes. Operators must be trained and assessed on each category of equipment they use, as different truck types have different controls, handling characteristics, and risks.
How long does forklift training take?
Course duration depends on operator experience, the number of trainees, and the level of training required. ITSSAR sets minimum course durations to help ensure operators are properly trained and assessed.
How many people can attend a forklift training course?
Course sizes are usually limited to a maximum of three trainees in line with recognised guidance. This helps ensure proper instruction, supervision, and assessment throughout the course.
How often should operators complete refresher training?
The HSE recommends refresher training at regular intervals, typically every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if unsafe practices are identified or workplace conditions change.
Do operators need refresher training if they use forklifts every day?
Yes. Regular forklift use does not replace refresher training. Refresher training helps reinforce safe working practices, address unsafe habits, and ensure operators remain aligned with current guidance and workplace procedures.
Accreditation, Certification and Records
Is South Coast Forklift Training accredited?
Yes. South Coast Forklift Training is an ITSSAR-accredited training provider delivering recognised forklift and material handling equipment training.
Can I check that South Coast Forklift Training is accredited?
Yes. South Coast Forklift Training is listed on ITSSAR’s official directory of accredited training providers.
Does your price include certification?
Yes. Course fees include certification and all required documentation, with no hidden extras. Where applicable, operators are also registered on the TOPS database.
What happens after training is completed?
Successful candidates receive the relevant certification and training documentation. Where applicable, operators are also registered on the ITSSAR TOPS (Trained Operator Passport Scheme) database.
Do employers need to keep forklift training records?
Yes. Employers should keep clear records of operator training, assessments, and certification to help demonstrate competence and support workplace safety management.
How long does a forklift certificate last?
Forklift certificates do not technically expire, but the HSE recommends refresher training every 3 to 5 years to help maintain safe operating standards.
Health, Safety and Legal Requirements
What is the minimum age to operate a forklift?
Operators must generally be over the minimum school leaving age, except in ports where the minimum age is 18. Employers must also consider additional controls for young workers.
Do forklift operators need a medical?
Employers should assess whether operators are medically fit to use lift trucks safely, particularly in higher-risk environments or where health concerns may affect safe operation.
Do forklift operators have to wear seat belts?
Yes. Many lift trucks, including counterbalance forklifts, require restraint systems to help protect operators in the event of overturning or instability.
Can a forklift be used to lift people?
Only in exceptional circumstances and with suitable equipment, planning, and risk controls in place. Forklift trucks should not normally be used for lifting people where safer alternatives are available.
Do powered pallet trucks require training?
Yes. Operators must be adequately trained to use powered pallet trucks safely, even though the equipment is smaller and slower than many rider-operated forklifts.
Do I need a driving licence to operate a forklift?
No. A car driving licence is not required to operate a forklift truck unless it is being driven on a public highway.
Is formal forklift training a legal requirement?
Employers must not allow operators to use lift trucks unless they have received adequate training and can operate the equipment safely and competently.
Forklift Truck Training
What types of forklift training do you provide?
We provide training for counterbalance forklifts, reach trucks, pallet trucks, stackers, order pickers, telehandlers, vehicle banksman duties, and other material handling equipment.
Can experienced operators complete a shorter course?
Yes. Operators with relevant practical experience may be eligible for experienced operator training rather than a full novice course.
I’ve lost my forklift certificate. What should I do?
Contact your original training provider, previous employer, or the relevant accrediting body. If records cannot be located, your employer may require additional training or assessment.
Do you provide training for indoor and outdoor forklift use?
Yes. Different types of forklift trucks are suited to different environments, including warehouses, loading areas, yards, and industrial sites.
Vehicle Banksman Training
What is a vehicle banksman?
A vehicle banksman is responsible for guiding drivers and plant operators during reversing or difficult manoeuvres, helping reduce the risk of collisions and workplace transport accidents.
Who needs vehicle banksman training?
Vehicle banksman training is suitable for staff responsible for directing vehicle movements, assisting with reversing operations, or helping control vehicle and pedestrian risks on site.
Is there a minimum age for a vehicle banksman?
There is no specific legal minimum age, but many employers require vehicle banksmen to be at least 18 due to the level of responsibility and workplace risk involved.
Do you provide on-site vehicle banksman training?
Yes. Training is delivered on-site using your normal workplace environment to help ensure instruction reflects real vehicle movements, site conditions, and operational risks.
Website Information
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