Forklift Training Guides For 7 Classes of Forklifts
When it comes to forklifts, one size definitely does not fit all. In a single warehouse, there can be as many as four or more different types of vehicles for loading, unloading, storing, and for low, medium and high-level order picking. Each vehicle will have its own forklift guide, which should be kept with the vehicle at all times.
There are seven classes of commonly used powered industrial trucks. In the ForkliftCertification.com training kit, there are seven individual forklift training guides. Coincidence? Hardly. Here, we describe each of the seven classes of forklift truck. Within each class, there may be several different sub-types.
That sounds like a lot of information to learn – and it is! But don’t worry about getting bogged down in the details – FLC’s training modules include forklift study guides to help create a productive learning environment.
If you’re not sure what is involved in forklift training, FLC will guide your company toward a safer, more productive work environment. What’s more, you’ll also be OSHA compliant! With our forklift certification study guides, OSHA compliance is right around the corner – and FLC will show you how! Sign up today for basic forklift training and ensure your employees are prepared to handle anything that comes their way!
BASIC FORKLIFT TRAINING: ELECTRIC VERSUS INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
The most fundamental difference between any two types of forklift is whether they are powered by electricity or by gasoline or other fuel. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses and its own safety hazards. One obvious hazard with the internal combustion engine is that it produces toxic fumes, and therefore needs plenty of ventilation to operate. You would not choose a gasoline-powered forklift for a small warehouse in the dead of winter. The forklift guide that comes with the vehicle will contain information about hazards and how to mitigate them.
✓ Class I – Electric motor rider trucks
Electric forklifts are quiet, clean, compact and easy to maneuver. Their downside? They need to be charged. Unlike a gas or diesel-powered forklift, this requires downtime. Unlike a laptop computer or a toaster, you can’t run it while it is plugged in. They are used when air quality is important, like a small warehouse or factory. Special safeguards are required when using an electric forklift in an atmosphere where there is a possibility of dust or flammable vapor. Your forklift training guide will indicate what precautions are necessary.
✓ Class II – Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
Narrow-aisle trucks are desirable when space is at a premium, as in high-density warehouses. There are also very narrow-aisle, or VNA trucks, which are operable in aisles as narrow as 1.6 meters.
✓ Class III – Electric Motor Hand or Hand/Rider Trucks
Here, the operator walks or sits in front of the truck and controls it via a steering tiller. It’s a little like walking a bicycle. Automated and high-lift models are often counterbalanced. For more details of how to operate this type of forklift, consult your forklift training guide.
✓ Class IV – Internal Combustion Engine Trucks – Cushion Tires
Cushion tires (aka solid tires) are made out of solid rubber and have a hollow groove running lengthwise on the inner surface.
✓ Class V – Internal Combustion Engine Trucks – Pneumatic Tires
Pneumatic is a fancy way of saying the tires have air in them, like those on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Lift trucks in this class have a large range of capacities and may be seen transporting anything from a single pallet-load to a 40-foot container. The forklift guide with the vehicle will indicate the inflation pressure to use.
✓ Class VI – Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors
In trucks of this class, the rider sits in the truck and pulls a tow tractor lift. These trucks are extremely versatile and can be used in a range of conditions. They may be fitted with an internal combustion engine for outdoor use or with a battery-powered electric motor for indoor use.
✓ Class VII – Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks
Rough terrain lifts are used in construction, in lumber yards and at auto recyclers. They have huge flotation tires that make them ideal for use on difficult surfaces.
GET BASIC FORKLIFT TRAINING WITH FLC’S FORKLIFT STUDY GUIDES
We realize the anxiety that comes with test day. It’s always best to be prepared. With FLC’s forklift classifications training, you’ll get helpful forklift certification study guides to build your knowledge base about:
✓ OSHA safety standards
✓ Correct load handling
✓ Recognizing safety hazards
✓ And much more
FLC’s forklift study guide comes standard with all of our training modules. Plus, our courses include:
✓ Step-by-step guides
✓ Printable templates
✓ Trainer orientation CD
✓ Custom training content for seven different real-world forklift driving scenarios
✓ And more
FORKLIFT OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS | HOW TO OPERATE A FORKLFIT
Basic forklift training includes instructions on how to operate a forklift. Here’s a basic outline of operating forklift basic principles:
1. Ensure the forklift has been inspected prior to use
2. Check the surrounding area for debris and other hazards.
3. Visually inspect safety signals and other safety accessories.
4. Start the forklift.
5. Ensure no pedestrians or co-workers are in the path of the forklift.
6. Follow all recommended OSHA basic forklift training and safety guidelines while driving the forklift.
7. If necessary, have maintenance personnel inspect forklift for any unexpected noises, turns, etc.
8. Safely park / charge forklift for the next driver.
BASIC FORKLIFT TRAINING SAFETY TIPS
✓ Not sure what is involved in forklift training? Try these safety tips:
✓ Ensure proper lighting in work area. Hazards thrive in darkness!
✓ Check forklift safety features before operating equipment.
✓ Don’t run forklift with cargo extended outward or upward. Always keep pallets slightly above the ground.
✓ Slow down near corners and blind spots.
✓ Wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
✓ Get trained by FLC today!
FLC is the best option to get OSHA compliant basic forklfit training. And with our forklift certification study guide and other helpful tools, you’ll pass your test with flying colors!
NEED BASIC FORLIFT PRINCIPLES? GET YOUR HANDS ON A FORKLIFT TRAINING GUIDE
For every forklift operator that is not trained and certified, OSHA may levy a $7,000 fine. In cases of willful neglect, they have been known to slap on ten times that amount. Training your work force with ForkliftCertification.com is fast, easy and much more affordable than closing your eyes and hoping they don’t find you.
According to OSHA, forklift operators need to be trained on the specific equipment they are expected to use and in the environment where they are going to operate it. We’ll show you what is involved in forklift training, including basic and advanced safety concepts.
Inside the ForkliftCertification.com Training Kit, you will find seven courses covering the different classes of forklifts, together with written, step-by-step forklift study guides, printable templates for equipment inspection checklists, student handouts, operator cards, certificates of completion, and a hands on evaluation guide and checklist. This is the perfect basic forklift training package!
If you have any questions about basic forklift training or training courses, call our OSHA forklift training consultants at (888) 278-8896. Thanks for visiting FLC!