Counterbalance to Reach Forklift Conversion - 2 Days

The RTITB Reach Forklift Truck Operator Conversion Course is designed for trained and qualified forklift truck operators who need to convert their existing operator skills to safely operate a Reach Forklift Truck.

Description

Reach Forklift Trucks are specifically designed for working within warehouse environments, particularly where narrow aisles and high-level racking systems are used.

The Reach Forklift Truck Operator Conversion Course provides existing qualified forklift operators with the additional knowledge and practical skills required to safely transition from their current lift truck category to a Reach Truck.

The course focuses on the key differences between truck types, including steering characteristics, operator position, visibility, load stability, reach mechanisms, manoeuvring techniques, and stacking and de-stacking at height.

Candidates receive practical, hands-on training under the supervision of a qualified instructor, allowing them to develop confidence and competence in realistic warehouse operating scenarios.

Prerequisites

This course is designed specifically for existing trained forklift truck operators. Candidates must:

  • Hold evidence of previous recognised basic operator training on another suitable lift truck category
  • Have recent and relevant practical forklift operating experience
  • Be physically capable of safely operating a Reach Forklift Truck
  • Have sufficient understanding of English to follow safety instructions and complete the required assessments
  • Have access to an email address

Candidates who do not hold an existing recognised forklift operator qualification may require a Novice or Experienced Operator course instead of Conversion Training.

What's Involved

The course combines theoretical instruction, instructor demonstrations, and practical hands-on training.

Training areas include:

  • Introduction to the Reach Forklift Truck and its applications
  • Differences between Reach Trucks and other forklift truck types
  • Familiarisation with controls and instruments
  • Pre-use inspections and daily safety checks
  • Reach mechanism operation
  • Steering characteristics and safe manoeuvring
  • Principles of stability and capacity
  • Safe load handling techniques
  • Travelling with and without loads
  • Manoeuvring within narrow and confined aisles
  • Correct approach and positioning at racking
  • Stacking and de-stacking at various heights
  • Safe use of warehouse racking systems
  • Pedestrian awareness and workplace safety
  • Parking and securing the truck after use
  • Battery charging and end-of-shift procedures

Training is delivered through realistic practical exercises designed to develop safe, controlled, and efficient operating techniques.

Assessment

To successfully complete the course, candidates must demonstrate the required level of knowledge and practical competence.

Assessment includes:

Theory Test

Candidates complete a theory assessment covering:

  • Operator safety responsibilities
  • Reach Truck operating principles
  • Stability and load handling
  • Workplace hazards
  • Safe operating procedures

Pre-Use Inspection Test

Candidates must demonstrate their ability to correctly inspect the Reach Truck before operation, identify potential defects, and follow appropriate defect reporting procedures.

Practical Operating Test

Candidates are assessed on their ability to operate the Reach Truck safely and efficiently, including:

  • General truck control
  • Safe manoeuvring
  • Observation and awareness
  • Load handling
  • Stacking and de-stacking
  • Use of the reach mechanism
  • Correct positioning within aisles
  • Safe parking and shutdown procedures

All assessments are conducted in accordance with the applicable accredited training and assessment standards.

Key Benefits

Develop Additional Operator Skills

Expand existing forklift skills by becoming trained and competent to operate a Reach Forklift Truck.

Increased Career Opportunities

Reach Truck operators are widely required within warehousing, distribution centres, manufacturing, and logistics operations.

Practical Hands-On Training

Develop skills through practical exercises and realistic warehouse operating scenarios.

Improved Safety Awareness

Understand the specific risks and operating characteristics associated with Reach Forklift Trucks.

Greater Operator Versatility

Being trained across multiple lift truck categories can increase flexibility and value within the workplace.

Recognised Training and Assessment

Complete structured operator training and assessment delivered to recognised industry standards.

Increased Confidence

Develop the practical skills and confidence required to safely operate within narrow aisles and high-level racking environments.

Pricing

TOTAL COST: £426.00

This includes:

  • £330.00 Course Fee
  • £25.00 RTITB Accreditation (Optional - ensure you select this at booking)
  • £71.00 VAT 

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