Experienced Operator Training
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Experienced Forklift Training
For Operators With Previous Experience – But No Formal Training
If your team members have hands-on experience operating forklifts but lack formal instruction or certification, our Experienced Operator Training course is the right fit. It builds on existing practical skills while ensuring operators meet safety standards, legal requirements, and best practice guidelines.
Who Is This Course For?
Bridging the Gap Between Experience and Certification
This course is ideal for staff who have operated lift trucks in the past but have never received formal training or hold no recognised certificate. It’s designed to validate and enhance existing skills, correct unsafe habits, and bring operators up to accredited standards.
Course Duration
Tailored to Skill Level and Truck Type
Training duration ranges from 3 to 22.5 hours, depending on the type of forklift and the number of delegates. Since operators already have hands-on experience, the course focuses on refining technique, filling knowledge gaps, and preparing for assessment, without unnecessary repetition.
ACCREDITED TRAINING FROM A COMPANY THAT CARES
Available Machine Types
Looking to train a new operator? Select the lift truck that suits your needs below and explore our experienced operator training options.
Counterbalance Forklift
Most common indoor/outdoor truck.
Powered Pallet Truck (Pedestrian)
Short-distance pallet mover.
Telescopic Handler
Construction site machine.
Powered Pallet Truck (Rider)
Medium-distance pallet mover.
Pallet Stacker
Pedestrian-operated lifting machine.
Medium-Level Order Picker
Stock picker at medium levels.
Very Narrow Aisle (Operator-Up)
High-level pallet rotation.
High-Level Order Picker
Stock picker at high levels.
Straddle Truck
Pedestrian-operated pallet lifter.
Available Machine Types
Looking to train a new operator? Select the lift truck that suits your needs below and explore our experienced operator training options.
Counterbalance Forklift
Most common indoor/outdoor truck.
Telescopic Handler
Construction site machine.
Very Narrow Aisle (Operator-Up)
High-level pallet rotation.
Straddle Truck
Pedestrian-operated pallet lifter.
Powered Pallet Truck (Pedestrian)
Short-distance pallet mover.
Powered Pallet Truck (Rider)
Medium-distance pallet mover.
Low-Level Order Picker
Stock picker at ground level.
Medium-Level Order Picker
Stock picker at medium levels.
High-Level Order Picker
Stock picker at high levels.
COURSES DESIGNED TO DELIVER RESULTS
Experienced Course Breakdown
Experienced courses include the theoretical and practical instruction, covering:
- The reasons and the need to train
- Responsibilities under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER 98 and LOLER 98
- Operator’s safety code
- Battery maintenance, recharging procedures and refuelling
- Pre-use checks
- Counterbalance principles and rated capacity
- Factors affecting machine stability
- Machine familiarisation and motive controls
- Hydraulic controls
- Load types
- Manoeuvring in open and confined areas
- Stacking and de-stacking at various levels (bulk stacking and racking systems)
- Stacking and de-stacking corner locating loads *
- Vehicle loading and unloading *
* To be covered where relevant to operation or facilities permit
WHATEVER YOUR LEVEL, WE HAVE YOU COVERED
From in-depth beginners to safety refresher courses
Novice Operator
This course is for operators with little or no previous experience using the relevant machine.
Experienced Operator
A course for trainees with relevant, recent experience who have not received any approved training.
Safety Refresher
A periodic forklift refresher course for experienced operators who hold an accredited certificate.
Conversion Training
This course is for trainees who hold an accredited certificate on a truck of a similar type or level.
Delivering the best for your business
Our courses are designed to achieve results
Do you need a Driving Licence?
A car driving licence is not required to operate a forklift truck, unless you need to drive it on public roads. However, some driving experience can help develop spatial awareness and general control. Regardless, our training is designed to be accessible to anyone with the right attitude and focus.
Why Accredited Training Matters
This course follows the Health & Safety Commission’s Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Rider-Operated Lift Trucks, meaning it meets a nationally recognised standard. As an employer, this ensures your business stays compliant and your staff are properly trained, reducing risk and demonstrating your commitment to safety.
Assessment and Certification
To pass the course, each delegate must complete both a theory test and a practical assessment. Successful candidates will receive an ITSSAR-accredited certificate. Certification may be issued under your company’s name if training records are kept in-house, but it still reflects full compliance with recognised standards.
Ready to Get Started?
Choose the ITSSAR-accredited training provider that will work with you to deliver high-quality forklift training at your business premises.
Our Most Popular Training Courses
Counterbalance Training
Counterbalance forklifts are the most common type of lift truck used today and are recognised for their versatility. They are essential for many industries and operate indoors and outdoors, making them highly practical for numerous material handling tasks.
Telehandler Training
Rough terrain telescopic trucks are indispensable on construction sites and farms. Equipped with large tyres and high ground clearance, they excel in difficult terrains. Many models also feature stabilising legs for enhanced stability and safe operations.
Reach Truck Training
Reach trucks are staples in warehouses, celebrated for their exceptional manoeuvrability and ability to access high racking. They are typically chosen for tasks prioritising height over weight, making them perfect for organised, vertical storage solutions.
APPROVED FORKLIFT LICENCES AND CERTIFICATES
Quick Answers to Common Questions
If we haven’t covered all your questions already, please check out more frequently asked questions or contact us.
Forklift Training That Stands Up to Scrutiny
Training delivered on-site using your equipment, in a controlled and safe environment.
We look forward to working with you
On-Site, Relevant Training
Delivered at your premises using your equipment, so operators are trained in conditions that reflect your actual workplace.
ITSSAR-Accredited Standards
Training that meets recognised UK guidance, giving you confidence that your operation stands up to scrutiny.
Clear, Practical Instruction
No jargon or shortcuts—operators gain a genuine understanding of safe working practices, not just how to pass a test.
Straightforward and Reliable Service
Easy booking process, comprehensive insurance cover, and professionally delivered training from start to finish.
Trusted by Businesses Across the South
"The instructor split the theory and practical well – this helped with boredom."
LG, Southampton, Hampshire
"A good balance of practical and theory throughout to break things up and keep it interesting."
AP, Fareham, Hampshire
"I enjoyed the interaction and attention to detail on the practical test."
CS, Segensworth, Hampshire
Want to see more? Check out our Google reviews.
Health & Safety Executive's Approved Code of Practice - Rider-Operated Lift Trucks
“Training should be largely practical in nature and of sufficient length to enable trainees to acquire the basic skills and knowledge required for safe operation, including knowledge of the risks arising from lift-truck operations.”