Starting a new role as a forklift operator can be both exciting and daunting. Forklifts are powerful machines used in a wide range of industries, from warehousing and logistics to manufacturing and construction, and while they make lifting and moving heavy loads more efficient, they also pose significant safety risks if not handled correctly. For new operators, proper forklift training is critical to ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with UK workplace regulations. Here are five essential tips every new operator should follow to get started on the right foot. 1. Always Complete Accredited Forklift Training Before operating any type of forklift or Materials Handling Equipment (MHE), it is legally required that you complete formal forklift training from an accredited provider. Sabretec Training offers nationally recognised and accredited forklift training courses that ensure operators are competent and compliant with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) standards. Training includes both theoretical and practical elements, covering everything from pre-use checks to safe manoeuvring. 2. Know Your Forklift and Its Limits Not all forklifts are the same. Counterbalance, reach trucks, and telehandlers all have different capabilities, controls, and safe operating procedures. Understanding the specific equipment you're using, including its load capacity, turning radius, and lift height is key to safe operation. Overloading or improperly stacking materials can cause tip-overs or dropped loads, which are among the most common causes of workplace accidents. 3. Perform Daily Safety Checks One of the most important habits to build early on is carrying out daily forklift safety checks before each shift. This includes checking the brakes, tyres, lights, steering, horn, and hydraulics. Identifying and reporting faults early can prevent breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and most importantly, prevent accidents. 4. Maintain Clear Visibility and Situational Awareness Poor visibility is a major risk when operating a forklift. Always ensure you have a clear line of sight before moving or lifting loads. Use mirrors where fitted and ask for assistance when visibility is obstructed. Be aware of pedestrians, other vehicles, and blind spots. Forklift training teaches operators how to safely share space with others and navigate busy worksites. 5. Follow All Site Rules and Safe Practices Each worksite has its own safety protocols, speed limits, and designated travel paths. Following these site-specific rules is crucial to staying safe and avoiding disciplinary issues. Always wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as hi-vis vests and safety footwear, and never use a forklift under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or fatigue. Need Forklift Training For Your Team? At Sabretec Training, we provide comprehensive forklift training for beginners and experienced operators alike. Our health and safety training services are fully accredited, and we pride ourselves on exceptional support, competitive pricing, and nationwide availability — including flexible hours and weekend training. If you're looking to start your career safely and confidently, trust Sabretec’s expert-led forklift training to give you the skills and certification you need.

Ensuring the health and safety of employees is a top priority for any business. One of the most critical components of workplace safety is first aid training at work.

Failing to comply with forklift safety regulations can result in workplace accidents, legal penalties, and costly damages.

Improper maintenance and neglecting daily safety checks can lead to accidents, equipment failure, and costly downtime. Performing a pre-use forklift inspection ensures compliance and helps prevent workplace hazards.

By implementing the right safety measures, businesses can reduce these risks and enhance workplace safety.

Forklift operation comes with inherent risks, and ensuring operators wear the correct PPE is vital for workplace safety. Helping prevent injuries, reduces the severity of accidents, and ensures compliance with UK health and safety regulations.

Forklifts are essential in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing plants, but improper operation can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and costly damages. Many forklift accidents occur due to common mistakes that could be easily prevented with proper training and awareness. At Sabretec Training , we have over 45 years of experience in Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) training. We are an accredited training provider known for excellence in service provision, outstanding customer care, and great reviews from businesses across the UK. Let's explore common forklift mistakes. 1. Failing to Conduct Pre-Use Safety Checks: One of the most overlooked but essential aspects of forklift operation is the pre-use inspection. Operators must check the forklift before each shift to identify any mechanical faults, such as brake failures, worn tyres, or hydraulic leaks. Neglecting these checks can result in breakdowns, equipment failure, or accidents. How to Avoid It: Sabretec Training teaches operators how to conduct thorough pre-use safety inspections, ensuring all forklifts are in top condition before use. This helps prevent unexpected failures and keeps workplaces safe. 2. Overloading the Forklift Each forklift has a maximum load capacity, which must never be exceeded. Overloading can cause the forklift to become unstable, leading to tip-overs, damaged goods, and potential injuries. How to Avoid It: Proper forklift training helps operators understand load capacity ratings, weight distribution, and the importance of securing loads correctly. At Sabretec Training, we emphasise safe loading techniques to prevent accidents and costly product damage. 3. Incorrect Load Handling Improper load handling, such as lifting with uneven weight distribution, tilting loads incorrectly, or failing to secure items properly, can lead to dropped goods, damaged pallets, or forklift instability. How to Avoid It: Our expert training ensures operators learn the correct way to pick up, transport, and stack loads securely, reducing the risk of workplace accidents and product loss. 4. Reckless Driving and Speeding Operating a forklift at excessive speeds or making sudden turns can cause the vehicle to tip over, leading to serious injuries. Forklifts are designed for controlled, steady movements—speeding or sharp turns compromise stability. How to Avoid It: Sabretec Training reinforces safe driving techniques, including speed control, proper turning methods, and hazard awareness to ensure operators handle forklifts responsibly. 5. Ignoring Pedestrian Safety One of the most common forklift-related accidents involves collisions with pedestrians. Operators must always be aware of their surroundings, use signals, and follow designated traffic routes within warehouses and work sites. How to Avoid It: We educate operators on pedestrian awareness, workplace safety zones, and effective communication to minimise the risk of accidents and maintain a safe working environment. 6. Operating a Forklift Without Proper Training Untrained or uncertified forklift operators pose a significant risk to themselves and others. Lack of training leads to poor load handling, unsafe driving, and a higher chance of accidents. How to Avoid It: Sabretec Training provides AITT-accredited training to ensure all forklift operators are fully competent, compliant with UK safety regulations, and equipped with the skills needed to handle forklifts safely and efficiently. Why Choose Sabretec Training? With over 45 years of industry experience and expertise in Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) training, Sabretec Training is committed to delivering exceptional service and customer care. Our accredited courses cover novice training, refresher courses, and multi-truck training, helping businesses across the UK maintain safety and compliance. We have outstanding reviews from satisfied clients who trust us to provide high-quality training tailored to their needs. Book Your Forklift Training Avoid costly mistakes and ensure workplace safety with Sabretec Training . Whether you need beginner training, refresher courses, or multi-truck certification, we provide expert training to keep your operators skilled and your business compliant. Contact us today to book your forklift training and improve safety standards at your workplace.

Forklift training can be seen as an expense, but investing in accredited, professional forklift training enables safety, compliance and reduced accidents.

Forklift refresher training is essential for ensuring that operators maintain their skills, stay up to date with the latest safety regulations, and continue to operate equipment safely and efficiently. While initial forklift training provides the foundation for safe operation, regular refresher courses help reinforce best practices, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance with UK workplace safety regulations. When is Forklift Refresher Training Required? Industry best practices suggest that forklift operators should undergo refresher training every three to five years, but there are specific circumstances where it may be required sooner: After an accident or near-miss – If an operator is involved in a forklift-related accident, refresher training helps address any safety concerns and prevent future incidents. If unsafe practices are observed – Employers should arrange refresher training if an operator is seen using incorrect techniques or failing to follow safety procedures. Following a long period of absence – Operators returning from extended leave (e.g., sickness, or career breaks) should undergo refresher training to regain confidence and skills. When introducing new equipment – If a workplace introduces a new type of forklift or modifies existing machinery, refresher training ensures operators understand the differences and can operate safely. Changes in workplace layout or procedures – If the working environment changes, operators should be retrained to adapt to new hazards, traffic routes, or operational methods. Why is Forklift Refresher Training Important? 1. Maintaining Workplace Safety Over time, forklift operators may develop bad habits or become complacent in their driving techniques. Regular refresher training helps reinforce safe operating procedures, reducing the risk of workplace accidents, injuries, and damage to equipment or stock. 2. Legal Compliance There are a range of legal compliances for businesses to ensure forklift operators remain safe and competent in their operations. 3. Improving Efficiency and Productivity Operators who receive regular training work more efficiently and confidently, leading to faster loading and unloading times, reduced fuel consumption, and fewer maintenance issues. A well-trained workforce helps businesses maintain smooth operations while minimising downtime caused by errors or accidents. 4. Reducing Costs and Liability Workplace accidents can result in costly repairs, legal fees, compensation claims, and increased insurance premiums. Investing in regular refresher training helps businesses reduce these risks by ensuring operators are fully competent and up to date with safety procedures. Book Your Forklift Refresher Training Today At Sabretec Training , we offer AITT-accredited forklift refresher courses tailored to your business’s needs. Whether you need training for individual operators or full teams, our expert instructors will ensure your workforce remains safe, compliant, and efficient. Contact us today to schedule your refresher training and keep your business operating at the highest standards.