While it’s always been useful, the ability to operate a forklift is something that is in surprisingly high demand, thanks in large part to how sophisticated and demanding logistics has become.

As world markets become more integrated and as more and more local economies in Western Australia continue to expand, there will be a greater need for licenced forklift operators to help facilitate the logistics of meeting the increased demand for goods. 

While not necessarily the most complex type of heavy machinery you could expect to operate, building proficiency with forklifts is still critical. Forklift operators often need to operate in extremely tight quarters and within close proximity to other people. This means that operators need to be able to use forklifts safely and precisely.

Forklifts are also a regulated type of machinery in Western Australia and are subject to different legislation requirements. As with other heavy machinery, forklifts need to be operated with standard safety and control procedures as well. There are also learning curves to handling heavy loads with a forklift. Given the value of many goods and commodities carried by forklifts, operating a forklift is not something an operator would want to learn to do proficiently only when they start doing the job.

For these and other reasons, it’s important for any would-be forklift operator to complete a training course, not just to meet licencing requirements, but also to ensure they can perform competently at their job.

If you are interested in enrolling in a forklift training course to earn your forklift ticket, here are a few useful things to look out for:

1) Included WorkSafe fees  

Having included WorkSafe coverage is essential. While forklift training courses are generally quite safe, there is still a potential for accidents. Even if you can follow all safety procedures, this can only serve to reduce and not eliminate all the associated risks of training with forklifts. Forklifts are statistically one of the most dangerous types of heavy machinery. As a matter of fact, thousands of injuries are and dozens of fatalities are associated with forklift use worldwide each year.

2) National Recognition

Both the National High Risk Licence Unit of Competence TLILIC2001 (Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck) and LO licence Unit of Competence TLILIC2002 (Licence to Operate an Order Picking Forklift Truck) require training by an approved training organisation. As licences (and their revocation) are recognised throughout Australia, it follows that you should make sure that whichever training courses you choose are nationally recognised.

3) Convenience

Training schedules, available parking, fees, and proximity are all important factors to consider. After all, it’s much harder to complete the course if you’re not quite able to make things work because of any of these factors.

4) Trainer Experience

Try to look for courses that have trainers with at least a decade of experience. More experienced trainers will tend to have more understanding of the different nuances of operation and tend to be more understanding of what needs to be prioritised as well.

Going with the right training course will not only make the process smoother but it will also help keep you safer as well. Check out Nara Training for an assortment of heavy equipment training courses, including a course for qualifying for a forklift licence Perth area residents trust.