A forklift training course teaches you how to operate forklifts safely and efficiently
Knowing how to drive a forklift in the workplace means you can conduct your role of moving and placing goods quickly and efficiently, without causing any safety hazards for your team.
The best place to start learning about how to drive a forklift is by signing up for a forklift training course with a registered training organisation such as Kallibr Training (RTO 32365).
In this article, we’ll give you a quick overview of what you will learn during forklift operator training and what happens once you’ve passed the course.
What is involved in a forklift training course?
Operating a forklift involves lifting, moving and stacking goods or materials. To do this job safely you’ll need to learn the proper safety procedures, how to use the controls, how to steer and also how to maintain and inspect the equipment before use.
You’ll also learn how to load and unload goods safely, including stacking and loading materials onto the tynes so that the forklift can operate at a safe capacity.
The most common forklift qualification is a High-Risk Work Licence (Class LF) for forklifts. This allows you to operate any forklift, including counterbalance, reach trucks and high reach forklifts within Australia.
In this 3 day course, you’ll learn:
- The skills and knowledge to plan and prepare for the work, including ensuring the operating surface, working area, environmental conditions, attachments, and path of traffic is suitable for the task
- How to communicate effectively with other people involved in the task, how to fill out logbooks and conduct pre-start checks
- How to position the load to ensure the weight and size complies with the forklift’s rated capacity, and how to monitor loads throughout the lifting and moving process
- How to respond to unsafe or unplanned situations
- How to finish jobs safely including parking and switch off, isolation and securing the equipment following safe work procedures.
What happens once I pass the course?
The forklift course includes a practical assessment which is undertaken under real-life conditions at our Sydney or Brisbane training centres (or can be done at your workplace).
After passing the test you’ll receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment in TLILIC0003 Licence to operate a forklift truck. This Statement means you are eligible to apply for an HRW licence (high risk work licence) Class LF, which can be obtained from your workplace safety authority (eg: SafeWork NSW, WorkSafe QLD).
What if I don’t pass?
If you do not pass your theory or practical test, you may need to attend additional training depending on your results – we’re happy to provide advice and support on how to arrange some extra training.
Forklift Training FAQ’s
- What is a TLILIC0003? (Licence to operate a forklift)
TLILIC0003 is the national unit of competency for the Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck in Australia. It specifies the skills and knowledge required to operate a forklift safely and competently.
- Who needs to complete the course?
Anyone in Australia who wants to operate a forklift truck as part of their job must complete this course and obtain a forklift licence.
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling?
Participants must be at least 18 years old, have a basic understanding of English, and possess 100 points of ID as per the Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.
- How long does the course take?
The duration can vary between training providers but typically ranges from 2 to 3 days, including both theoretical and practical training components and the High Risk Work Licence Assessment (NAI)
- What does the course cover?
The course covers operating a forklift truck safely, including planning work, conducting routine checks, shifting loads safely, and shutting down and securing the equipment after completion of operations
- Is there an exam?
Yes, there is both a written test and a practical assessment to evaluate your understanding and ability to safely operate a forklift.
- What happens if I fail the assessment?
If you fail the assessment, you can usually retake it after 48 hours. However, policies on retakes, including any additional costs, vary by training provider.
- How do I obtain my forklift licence after completing the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll need to apply for a High Risk Work Licence through the relevant state or territory WHS regulator, submitting the necessary paperwork and paying any applicable fees.
- How much does the course cost?
Costs vary depending on the training provider and location but typically range from $300 to $600.
- Can I operate any type of forklift with the licence obtained from TLILIC0003?
This licence allows you to operate a forklift truck, equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage with a pair of fork arms or other attachments. This licence class is not for an order picking forklift truck.
- What is the validity period of the forklift licence?
The High Risk Work Licence is usually valid for 5 years, after which it must be renewed.
- Can I operate a forklift without supervision after completing the course?
Yes, once you have successfully completed the course and obtained your forklift licence, you can operate a forklift without supervision, provided you comply with workplace safety regulations.
Sign up for a forklift training course today
With Kallibr Training you can book a single seat or book your whole team for forklift training! Select a date that suits you and make your online booking on our course info page.
