CPCS Rough Terrain Forklift (A14) - Novice

The CPCS Rough Terrain Forklift course is specifically crafted for individuals seeking formal qualifications to operate a rough terrain forklift. This training accommodates both novices and experienced operators, with the course duration customized based on the operator's previous experience.

For novices, a learner analysis is conducted to determine the required length of training, ensuring comprehensive coverage of foundational skills. Conversely, experienced operators have the option to undertake a condensed course designed to refine and enhance their existing skills and knowledge.

The course integrates both theoretical and practical elements, focusing on safety protocols, operational techniques, and adherence to legal aspects related to forklift operation. Successfully completing the course assessments leads to the issuance of the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, marking a crucial step toward certification and career progression in rough terrain forklift operation.

What can I expect from this CPCS Rough Terrain Forklift course?

From the CPCS Rought Terrain 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:

• Role and Responsibilities: Describe the role and responsibilities of plant operators to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the job's demands and the safety expectations.
• Principal Components: Name and explain the purpose of principal components of the rough terrain forklift, including their basic construction, controls, and terminology.
• Pre-use Checks and Shutdown Procedures: Undertake all necessary pre-use checks to ensure the equipment is safe for operation, and learn the proper shutdown procedures to secure the forklift at the end of operations.
• Regulations and Legislation Compliance: Conform with relevant regulations and legislation, ensuring all operations adhere to legal and safety standards.
• Configuration for Travel: Configure the machine for travel and manoeuvre safely, whether laden or unladen, in all operational contexts.
• Lifting and Load Handling: Carry out lifting and load handling tasks, utilizing the full capabilities of the forklift while maintaining safety and efficiency.
• Safe and Accurate Load Transfer: Lift and transfer loads safely and accurately, ensuring precise placement at specified locations.
• Attachment Management: Fit, adjust, and remove attachments as required for various tasks, understanding the mechanical and safety implications of each attachment type.

By the end of this course, you should be fully prepared to operate a rough terrain 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 Rough Terrain 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 Rough Terrain Forklift course assessed?

The CPCS Rough Terrain 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 Rough Terrain 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 rough terrain 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 rough terrain masted 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.