The Association of Industrial Truck Trainers has launched a brand-new course that will allow operators to upskill and train to become instructors on A1 and A2 category trucks.
Liam Knight, Managing Director of AITT explained: “Our new course will enable category 4 tutors to train operators so that they can become category 7 instructors, in turn allowing them to train other operators on A1 pedestrian power pallet trucks and A2 rider power pallet trucks specifically. This could be particularly beneficial in large organisations who need to train many operators on this type of equipment.
“They will have more flexibility to train operators as and when needed as they will have a dedicated A1/A2 instructor. The quicker employers can train operators, the quicker they can get working on site, so companies will be able to meet customer demands.
“Power pallet trucks often make up the majority of a warehouse fleet and are hugely relied upon in those kinds of operations. But it’s a common misconception that operators don’t need to be trained on pedestrian pallet trucks. Every year we hear of serious accidents and it’s because an employer hasn’t provided operators with sufficient training.
“For instance, many companies will be hiring seasonal workers to cover the holidays and summer peaks. The risk of an accident increases with new starters as they may have little or no experience. Despite pallet trucks appearing as the most simplistic equipment, there is much operators have to learn. Even category Z1 pedestrian manual pallet trucks require training.
“The A1/A2 course will ensure that operators have the sufficient skills and knowledge to work safely and productively, and as it is delivered by an AITT-accredited provider, employers can be confident that training meets the highest industry standards.”
If you are an AITT-registered tutor or training provider, and would like to find out more about running the A1/A2 course, contact AITT for more information on 01530 810867 or visit www.aitt.co.uk
