Course Outline
Introduction to Forklift Safety
• Role of forklift operators in workplace safety
• Common causes of forklift accidents
• Responsibilities of operators and employers
• Importance of safe operating procedures
Forklift Types and Controls
• Counterbalance forklifts
• Reach trucks and warehouse equipment (awareness)
• Key components and controls
• Instrument panels and safety features
Hazards Associated with Forklift Operations
• Vehicle overturning risks
• Pedestrian interaction hazards
• Load instability and falling loads
• Poor visibility and blind spots
• Environmental risks (slopes, uneven surfaces)
Pre-Use Inspection and Maintenance
• Daily forklift inspection checks
• Identifying defects and faults
• Reporting procedures
• Importance of maintenance and servicing
Safe Operating Practices
• Starting and stopping procedures
• Steering and manoeuvring safely
• Travelling with and without loads
• Speed control and braking
• Operating in confined spaces
Load Handling and Stability
• Understanding load centres and capacity
• Safe lifting and lowering techniques
• Load positioning and securing
• Effects of uneven or unstable loads
• Working with pallets and materials
Workplace Transport Safety
• Traffic management systems
• Segregation of pedestrians and vehicles
• Use of designated routes and signage
• Communication and awareness
Practical Forklift Operation
• Safe driving exercises
• Load handling practice
• Manoeuvring in workplace scenarios
• Instructor observation and feedback
Forklift Safety as an Ongoing Responsibility
• Recognising unsafe behaviours
• Reporting hazards and near misses
• Maintaining safe operating standards
• Supporting workplace safety culture
Who the Course Is For
This course is suitable for individuals with prior forklift operating experience who do not hold formal certification or require a refresher.
Participants may include:
• Warehouse Operatives
• Logistics Personnel
• Manufacturing Operators
• Construction Workers
• Facilities and Maintenance Teams
• Supervisors overseeing forklift operations
• Experienced operators requiring skills refresh
Participants should have basic familiarity with forklift operation.
Why This Training Is Important
Risk Reduction
Forklift-related incidents can result in serious injuries, fatalities, and operational disruption. Refresher training helps reduce these risks.
Legal Responsibility
Employers must ensure that forklift operators are competent and trained to operate equipment safely.
Operational Safety
Consistent and correct operating techniques reduce equipment damage and workplace incidents.
Compliance
Training supports organisational duties under Irish workplace health and safety legislation.
Course Objectives
Participants will:
• Refresh knowledge of forklift safety principles
• Identify common workplace hazards
• Conduct pre-use safety inspections
• Apply safe driving and manoeuvring techniques
• Handle loads safely and correctly
• Understand workplace transport safety requirements
• Improve overall operator awareness and responsibility
Course Format & Delivery
Instructor-led training combining theory and practical instruction.
Includes:
• Classroom-based safety instruction
• Practical forklift driving exercises
• Real workplace scenario discussions
• Instructor observation and feedback
Delivered:
• Onsite at client premises
Irish Legislation Supported
This training supports employer obligations under:
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 – Part 2: Use of Work Equipment
Irish legislation requires employers to:
• Ensure work equipment is used safely
• Provide appropriate training and supervision
• Ensure operators are competent
• Maintain equipment in safe working condition
Why Choose Samson Training
Samson Training delivers practical workplace safety training focused on real operational environments.
Our approach emphasises:
• Practical operator skill development
• Real workplace hazard awareness
• Clear understanding of responsibilities
• Structured and consistent training delivery
• Observation-led improvement
We position forklift training as part of ongoing workplace safety systems — not just a compliance exercise.
FAQ's
Is this course suitable for experienced operators without certification?
Yes. This course is specifically designed for experienced operators who require formal training or a structured refresher.
Does this course provide certification?
This is a non-certified refresher-style course. If certification is required, a formal accredited forklift course may be recommended.
Is practical forklift training included?
Yes. Participants complete practical driving and load handling exercises under instructor supervision.
How long is the course?
The course is delivered over 2 days, combining theory and practical training.
Can training be delivered onsite?
Yes. Onsite delivery allows training to reflect actual workplace equipment and conditions.
