Counterbalance forklift graduates

Counterbalance forklift graduates

Exciting news from our operations team at Granby! Eddie Pickup and Richard Willmott have both successfully completed a 3-day Novice Counterbalance training course and are now counterbalance forklift graduates

What are Counterbalance forklifts?

Counterbalance forklifts are characterised by their weight distribution, with the weight of each load being counteracted by the weight of the machine itself. The design allows them to lift and move loads with stability, making them versatile workhorses in our warehouses. However, the sheer power and potential hazards associated with these machines necessitate thorough training for operators.

Safety First

In our ever-changing world of material handling and logistics, counterbalance forklifts play a crucial and pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations within our warehouse and distribution centre. These powerful machines are indispensable for lifting and transporting heavy loads and pallets, but their safe and efficient operation requires proper training. Safety should always be the top priority in any workplace and when it comes to operating counterbalance forklifts the stakes are high. This is why proper training is needed and ensures operators are well versed in all safety protocols, including load capacity limits proper load positioning and awareness of surroundings. Safety is the primary focus of everything we do at Granby, and we do everything to ensure a safer and more productive workplace for everybody.

Regulations

Adhering to safety regulations and standards is not only the right thing to do but also a legal requirement. Regulatory bodies mandate the forklift truck operators undergo training to operate specific types of forklifts including counterbalance forklifts. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties, legal consequences, and a compromised workplace safety record.

The Actual Training

From Health & Safety, risk assessments, loading and unloading pallets to driving the actual counterbalance forklift trucks around chicanes, they aced it all!

The training was a structured process combining theoretical knowledge and hands on practical experience. This dual approach and shows that operators not only understand the principles of safety operation but also gain the skills needed to navigate real-world scenarios around our warehouses.

1: Understanding the machine. Successful counterbalance forklift operation begins with a deep understanding of the machine itself. Operators must be familiar with the controls, levers and gauges as well as the machines limitations and capabilities. This knowledge forms the foundation for safe and efficient operations.

2: Local handling techniques. Proper load handling is a critical aspect of counterbalance forklift operation. The training covers techniques for assessing load weights, securing loads, and maintaining load stability during lifting, transportation, and stacking. This ensures our operators can handle various types of loads without compromising safety.

3: Spatial awareness. Operating a forklift requires a keen sense of spatial awareness. Training emphasises the importance of understanding the forklifts dimensions, turning radius and blind spots. This awareness is crucial for navigating through narrow aisles, avoiding obstacles and preventing collisions with structures or other equipment.

4: Emergency procedures. No training is complete without addressing emergency situations. Operators are taught how to respond to potential hazards, such as equipment malfunctions, power failures or unexpected obstacles. Quick and effective decision-making during emergencies as a key skill for our operators and one that can mitigate the severity of any incident.

Congratulations

Our Head of Operations and Warehousing, Dave Saunders, said

“Congratulations to both Eddie and Richard for passing the written exam and the practical tests and obtaining their licences for the next 3 years.”