Forklift Truck – Novice Operator Training
SIGTA’s Forklift Truck – Novice Operator Training course is designed for individuals with little or no previous forklift experience. This ITSSAR accredited course provides structured training and assessment to ensure new operators can operate forklift trucks safely, competently and in line with legal requirements.
Training is available for counterbalance, reach, and a wide range of other forklift truck types.
Course Overview
This course is intended for individuals who are new to forklift truck operation and require full training from the ground up. Delivered in line with ITSSAR standards, the course introduces operators to safe forklift operation, workplace responsibilities and essential operating techniques.
Training is delivered onsite at your premises, using your own forklift trucks and working environment, allowing instruction to be tailored to real site conditions.
Through a combination of classroom-based theory, practical instruction and formal assessment, novice operators develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required to operate forklift trucks safely and efficiently, while supporting compliance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and workplace safety legislation.
NOTE: Course duration ranges from 3 to 5 days depending on the number of delegates.
During this course you will learn
- Legal requirements for forklift truck operation under PUWER
- Operator responsibilities and safe working practices
- Understanding forklift truck stability and load centres
- Pre-use inspections and fault reporting procedures
- Safe starting, stopping, steering and manoeuvring techniques
- Load handling, stacking and de-stacking safely
- Operating in confined spaces and shared work areas
- Awareness of pedestrians, hazards and site-specific risks
- Safe shutdown, parking and end-of-shift procedures
This course is ideal for new employees, trainees or existing staff who need formal training and certification before operating forklift trucks in the workplace.
Your training will be delivered by one of SIGTA’s ITSSAR accredited forklift instructors, each bringing extensive hands-on experience and a clear, practical teaching style.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does forklift certification last?
There is no expiry on fork lift training certificates, but it is recommended to undergo safety refresher training every 3-5 years.
How is forklift operator competence assessed?
Operators are assessed through a combination of practical demonstration and supporting theory. Assessment focuses on safe operation, correct load handling, hazard awareness and compliance with recognised standards.
Is forklift truck training accredited?
Yes fork lift training is accredited. We are an ITSSAR accredited training provider and our instructors are all trained and accredited by ITSSAR.
Is forklift training delivered onsite?
Yes. All forklift truck training is delivered onsite at your premises, using your own forklift equipment and operating environment. This ensures training is relevant to real working conditions and minimises disruption to your business.
Who is forklift truck training suitable for?
Forklift truck training is suitable for new operators with little or no experience, experienced operators without formal certification, and previously trained operators who require refresher training. Courses are based on the operator’s experience, role and workplace requirements.
Why Choose SIGTA
Forklift Training Near You
All forklift training is delivered exclusively onsite at your workplace, allowing instruction to be tailored to your specific equipment, loads and operating environment while minimising disruption to your business.
Trusted, Accredited Provider
Your training will be delivered by one of SIGTA’s qualified forklift instructors, each bringing extensive hands-on experience and a clear, practical teaching style.
Aligned to National Standards
ITSSAR-accredited training delivered by experienced instructors, onsite at your premises using real equipment, focused on compliance, safety and reducing operational risk.
Our Commitment to Quality
SIGTA upholds strict quality standards across all training, with ongoing instructor development and continuous course evaluation to ensure reliable, high-quality Forklift Training you can trust.
Related Courses
SIGTA’s Pedestrian Operated Stacker Truck Training course provides ITSSAR accredited training for operators who use pedestrian controlled stacker trucks in the workplace.
SIGTA’s Forklift Truck – Refresher Training course is designed for qualified operators who hold a valid certificate and need to refresh their skills, reinforce safe working practices, or respond to changes in operating conditions. Training is available for counterbalance, reach, and a wide range of other forklift truck types.
SIGTA’s Forklift Truck – Experienced Operator - Uncertificated course is designed for operators who already use forklift trucks in the workplace but do not yet hold a recognised qualification. Training is available for counterbalance, reach, and a wide range of other forklift truck types.
SIGTA is a not for profit organisation
“Working with schools, youth organisations and local employers to increase participation in apprenticeships, we are committed to promoting and delivering high quality training programmes.”
Alison Foxwell, CEO