Reach trucks are often used in narrow aisles with higher stacking and higher racking. They are designed to have two outer legs that help distribute the load and a single wheel in the back. The wheel is located below the operator, which helps create a tighter turn radius. This allows operators to navigate smaller spaces. One of the bonuses of the reach truck is its ability to reduce in size once stacking or de-stacking is completed.

This course is for novice operators hoping to gain a qualification in Reach Trucks that are 3-8m in height.

The course is delivered through a combination of classroom-based tutorials and practical assignments. Delegates will be assessed through a mixture of theory and practical tests.

These will include:

• Introduction to the forklift truck to be used - Daily Maintenance Checks
• Relevant Legislation and Regulations - Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER 1998, LOLER 1998 and L117 - Rider Operated lift trucks (ACOP & Guidance)
• Pre-use inspection and take over maintenance
• Care of batteries/LPG/Diesel Trucks
• Controls and instruments
• Weight Assessment / Stability Factors
• Starting, moving and stopping the truck
• Handling laden and unladen pallets
• Operation of hydraulic controls
• Stacking/de-stacking – free-standing and in racking at various heights
• Loading and Unloading Procedures
• Safety code testing
• Practical test of basic operating skills
• Written test of operating knowledge

A ‘Novice Operator’ is an individual who either has no prior experience with forklift truck operation or has not operated one on a regular basis for an extended period (10+ years).

Successful delegates will receive an AITT certificate showing the relevant forklift category attained.