Forklift Handling Course

Lesson 1 • Types and Classifications of Forklifts

Covers counterbalance, reach, order picker, and rough-terrain forklift classes. Builds the vocabulary needed to interpret equipment manuals and safety placards throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • Personal Protective Equipment Usage

Specifies required PPE for forklift operators and bystanders in warehouse and outdoor settings. Reinforces PPE selection as a first line of injury prevention.

Lesson 3 • Workplace Hazard Identification

Teaches systematic identification of physical, environmental, and human hazards in forklift operating zones. Prepares operators to conduct pre-shift hazard assessments.

Lesson 1 • Pre-Operation Inspection Checklist

Teaches the structured walk-around inspection sequence covering fluid levels, tires, forks, and safety devices. Consistent inspection prevents mechanical failures during operation.

Lesson 2 • Operator Compartment Controls

Maps all cab controls including steering, accelerator, brake, and hydraulic levers to their operational functions. Familiarity with controls reduces reaction time and operator error.

Lesson 3 • Key Mechanical Components

Identifies mast, carriage, forks, hydraulic system, drive axle, and counterweight functions. Understanding each component links directly to inspection and fault diagnosis tasks.

Lesson 1 • Load Types and Packaging Considerations

Addresses how irregular, fragile, or hazardous loads alter handling technique and stability requirements. Operators adapt their approach based on load characteristics.

Lesson 2 • Load Centre and Rated Capacity

Explains how load centre distance reduces effective lifting capacity and how to read data plates accurately. Operators calculate safe loads before every lift.

Lesson 3 • The Stability Triangle Explained

Defines the three-point stability system formed by the front axle and rear wheels. Operators learn how load position and travel speed affect the stability triangle dynamically.

Lesson 1 • Operating in Confined and Shared Spaces

Develops techniques for manoeuvring in narrow aisles, doorways, and areas shared with pedestrians. Operators apply horn use, speed limits, and right-of-way rules consistently.

Lesson 2 • Steering, Acceleration, and Braking

Teaches rear-wheel steering dynamics, smooth acceleration, and controlled braking techniques. Operators develop muscle memory for predictable, safe vehicle control.

Lesson 3 • Travelling on Ramps and Inclines

Explains load orientation rules and speed management for ascending and descending grades. Operators prevent load shifts and tip-overs on sloped surfaces.

Lesson 4 • Turning, Reversing, and Cornering

Addresses wide-turn geometry, reverse travel awareness, and safe cornering speed. Operators practise manoeuvres that account for rear-end swing and pedestrian zones.

Lesson 1 • Transporting Loads Safely

Establishes travel rules for fork height, speed, and visibility management during load transport. Operators maintain situational awareness and adapt to floor conditions.

Lesson 2 • Placing Loads on Racks and Floors

Develops precision placement skills for floor stacking and elevated rack positions. Operators confirm rack capacity and beam alignment before depositing loads.

Lesson 3 • Handling Unusual Load Configurations

Addresses long loads, drum handling, and loads without standard pallets using appropriate techniques. Operators select correct fork positions and attachments for non-standard items.

Lesson 4 • Picking Up and Securing Loads

Covers fork insertion depth, lift height for clearance, and backward tilt for load security. Operators verify load balance before moving to prevent mid-travel shifts.

Lesson 1 • Loading Dock and Trailer Operations

Addresses dock leveler use, trailer chocking, and safe entry into trailers for loading and unloading. Operators prevent trailer creep and floor collapse incidents.

Lesson 2 • Outdoor and Yard Operations

Extends safe operating practices to outdoor yards, uneven surfaces, and variable weather conditions. Operators adjust speed, load position, and visibility strategies for outdoor environments.

Lesson 3 • Warehouse Traffic Management Systems

Explains designated travel lanes, signage, speed zones, and one-way traffic rules in warehouse settings. Operators follow site-specific traffic plans to prevent collisions.

Lesson 1 • Electric Forklift Battery Charging

Teaches battery charging station setup, connector handling, hydrogen gas ventilation, and charge cycle management. Proper charging extends battery life and prevents fire or explosion.

Lesson 2 • LPG Cylinder Handling and Exchange

Covers safe LPG cylinder storage, exchange procedure, leak detection, and emergency response. Operators handle cylinders without creating ignition or asphyxiation hazards.

Lesson 3 • Recognising Faults Requiring Professional Repair

Trains operators to identify hydraulic leaks, brake fade, mast cracks, and electrical faults beyond operator scope. Early fault recognition prevents costly failures and injuries.

Lesson 4 • Diesel Refuelling Procedures

Establishes safe diesel refuelling steps including spill prevention, static discharge, and fire hazard control. Operators complete refuelling without environmental or ignition incidents.

Lesson 1 • Collision and Struck-By Response

Covers immediate actions after striking a person, structure, or vehicle, including shutdown and emergency contact. Operators preserve the scene and support injured parties without moving them.

Lesson 2 • Tip-Over Survival Techniques

Teaches the brace-and-stay technique and explains why jumping from a tipping forklift increases fatality risk. Operators internalise the correct physical response before an emergency occurs.

Lesson 3 • Incident Reporting and Investigation

Establishes the operator's role in completing incident reports, cooperating with investigations, and implementing corrective actions. Accurate reporting drives systemic safety improvements.