CPCS Industrial Forklift (A16) - Novice

The CPCS Industrial Forklift course is designed for individuals seeking a formal qualification to operate an industrial forklift. This training caters to both novices and experienced operators, tailoring the course duration based on the individual's prior experience.

For those new to forklift operation, a learner analysis is conducted to determine the necessary length of training, ensuring all foundational skills are comprehensively covered. Experienced operators, on the other hand, have the option of a condensed two-day course specifically crafted to refine their existing skills and knowledge.

The course combines theoretical and practical elements, focusing on safety, operational techniques, and the legal aspects of forklift use. Successful completion of the course assessments leads to the issuance of the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, a crucial step towards certification and career advancement in industrial forklift operation.

What can I expect from this CPCS Industrial Forklift course?

From the CPCS Industrial Forklift course, you can expect a thorough training experience designed to comprehensively cover all aspects of safe and efficient forklift operation. Here's an overview of what the course will entail:

• Understanding the Equipment: You will learn to identify and explain the principle components of a forklift, understand its basic construction, and become familiar with the controls and terminology used in its operation.
• Adherence to Standards: The course emphasizes conforming to the manufacturer's requirements as outlined in the operator’s handbook, as well as adhering to relevant regulations and legislation. You will be taught to utilize various types of information sources effectively.
• Pre-use Checks: You'll learn to undertake all necessary pre-use checks on the plant to ensure it is safe for operation.
• Documentation: The importance of appropriate documentation will be covered, explaining its necessity and function within forklift operations.
• Operation and Manoeuvring: You will practice configuring the forklift for travel, manoeuvring in confined spaces with and without loads, and setting the forklift for various lifting and transferring duties.
• Safety Practices: The course will cover the actions required for identifying and dealing with hazards, including underground and overhead services. You will learn how to lift and move various loads using the full working height of the forklift, and how to transfer and accurately place these loads at specified locations.
• Vehicle Loading: Instructions will include how to place and remove loads from a vehicle safely and efficiently.
• Workplace Safety: You will be taught to maintain safe working conditions and keep the working area tidy. Additionally, the course will cover the procedures for shutting down and securing the forklift at the end of operations.
• Transportation Procedures: Finally, the course will explain the procedures for loading and unloading the forklift when transporting it between sites.

By the end of this course, you should be fully prepared to operate an industrial forklift safely and effectively, with a strong understanding of all operational and safety aspects required by a professional operator. 

Are there any entry requirements for the CPCS Industrial Forklift training course?

Learners must meet the following before enrolling:

• Health, Safety, and Environment Test: Learners must have successfully passed the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test for Operatives within the last two years prior to the start of the course. This test ensures that participants have a fundamental understanding of safety practices necessary for working on construction and industrial sites.
• Language Proficiency: A good understanding of spoken and written English is required. This ensures that participants can effectively understand the course material, follow safety instructions, and communicate effectively on the job.

These requirements are designed to ensure that all participants are prepared for the course content and can fully benefit from the training provided, maximising both learning outcomes and safety on site.

How is the CPCS Industrial Forklift course assessed?

The CPCS Industrial Forklift course is assessed through a combination of theoretical and practical evaluations to ensure participants have a comprehensive understanding and can competently operate a forklift. Here’s how the assessment typically takes place:

• Theory Test: This test involves a series of questions designed to assess the learner's understanding of forklift operations, safety protocols, and legal responsibilities. The questions might be multiple-choice or open-ended and cover topics such as the parts and functions of a forklift, safety checks, operating procedures, and how to handle specific situations or emergencies.
• Practical Test: The practical assessment requires participants to demonstrate their forklift operating skills in a controlled environment. This test assesses their ability to safely and efficiently handle a forklift, including tasks such as moving and stacking loads, manoeuvring through confined spaces, and executing pre-use checks. The assessment will observe the operator’s proficiency in applying the training in real-world scenarios, such as loading and unloading goods, positioning the forklift for various tasks, and adhering to safety practices.
• Performance Evaluation: Throughout the training course, instructors may also perform continuous assessments of each participant's progress. This includes monitoring how well participants apply their learning during practical exercises, their adherence to safety protocols, and their ability to troubleshoot common issues.

This structured approach to assessment ensures that all certified operators possess the necessary skills and knowledge to operate forklifts safely and effectively in various industrial settings.

After successfully completing the CPCS Industrial Forklift course, participants can achieve the following certifications based on their assessment results:

Red CPCS Trained Operator Card: Participants who pass both the theoretical and practical components of the CPCS technical tests are awarded the Red CPCS Trained Operator Card. This card serves as proof that the holder has received the essential training required to operate industrial forklifts under supervision. It remains valid for two years, during which operators are expected to accumulate practical experience in a work setting.

Progression to the Blue Card:

• CPCS Blue Competence Card: Once operators have the Red Trained Operator Card, they need to further develop their skills in an actual work environment. They must complete an NVQ Level 2 in Plant Operations, with a focus on preparing and operating industrial forklift trucks, within two years of obtaining their Red Card. Successful completion of this NVQ qualifies them to apply for the Blue CPCS Competence Card. This card, which is renewable every five years, represents a higher level of operational proficiency and extensive practical experience.

The pathway from the Red to the Blue Card is designed to ensure that forklift operators continually improve their skills, adhering to evolving safety standards and enhancing operational efficiency.