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Accredited Forklift Training
If your business uses forklifts, or you’re about to become an operator, getting the training right isn’t optional. Proper training keeps people safe, prevents costly downtime and helps you meet legal duties as an employer.
This guide walks you through everything practical: who needs training, what a good course includes, the main accreditations to look for, refresher rules and how to pick a supplier that actually delivers results (spoiler: JTW Training is set up to help nationwide).
Is Forklift Training Legally Required in the UK?
To put it simply, yes. Employers must ensure lift truck operators are properly trained and competent. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) makes clear that employers are responsible for training, authorising and supervising anyone who uses lift trucks at work.
That legal duty includes providing basic off-job training, job-specific training on the actual equipment and site and regular monitoring/refreshers.
What Does Good Forklift Training Look Like?
Good training balances classroom theory with practical, assessed driving. Most effective programmes include three clear stages:
- Theory / classroom – risk awareness, load handling, stability, legislation and safe systems of work.
- Practical off-job – hands-on skills training away from production pressures to learn manoeuvres and checks.
- On-job familiarisation – supervised practice in the actual workplace (routes, racking, site traffic), plus final assessment and authorisation.
Assessment should be evidence-based (practical demonstration + short written or verbal checks) and documented. The employer then authorises the operator to work unsupervised on specified machines and in defined areas. and more
What are the Different Types of Forklift Courses?
Training providers usually break courses into clear types depending on operator experience and machine type. Here at JTW Training, our courses types are split into novice, experienced, conversion and refresher. We also cover a wide range of truck types including: counterbalance, reach, articulated/Bendi/Flexi, multi-directional and more.
| Course type | Who it’s for | Typical outcome |
| Novice | Little/no prior experience | Full operator training from basics to assessment |
| Experienced | Some prior experience or informal training | Competency upgrade and formal assessment |
| Refresher | Previously trained operators | Update skills, cover new risks, re-assessment (recommended periodically) |
| Conversion | Trained on one truck, needs different truck category | Shorter course to convert to a new truck type |
Course length varies by truck and candidate ability, but expect anywhere from a day for basic pallet truck modules to multiple days for advanced or multi-category training.
Do Accreditations Matter? (ITSSAR, BRITTOp and others)
Training quality and recognition are helped by reputable accreditations. Two commonly referenced accrediting bodies in the UK are BRITTOpand ITSSAR; many providers will also mention membership of accreditation schemes or trade bodies.
Accredited schemes set standards for instructor competence, assessment and training content.
JTW Training operates as an ITSSAR and BRITTOp accredited provider and we offer national coverage and experienced instructors. Looking for accredited forklift training? Contact us here for a quote based on what you’re looking for.
How Long Does Certification Last? (and Refresher Training)
There’s no single legal expiry for certificates, what matters is ongoing competence. That said, many accredited courses issue certificates that are commonly accepted for around 3 years.
Training bodies and providers recommend refresher training and continual monitoring before anyone is re-authorised to operate unsupervised. Always follow your accreditor/provider guidance and the HSE’s advice on monitoring and refresher intervals.
How to Pick the Right Forklift Training Provider
When you’re looking for a forklift training company, look for:
- Clear accreditation (ITSSAR, BRITTOp or equivalent).
- Evidence the instructors stay current with HSE guidance and have public liability/professional indemnity insurance. JTW confirms HSC monitoring and insurance arrangements on our website.
- Flexibility. JTW has instructors across the whole UK, meaning we can provide nationwide and tailored training on your site.
- Transparent assessment and record-keeping
- Client references (repeat customers or recognisable clients are a good signal).
Business Benefits of Giving Employees Forklift Training
Investing in robust training reduces accidents, prevents damage, lowers insurance risk, improves productivity and builds employee confidence.
An authorised operator who understands site-specific hazards is less likely to cause incidents that disrupt operations or attract HSE enforcement. The soft ROI (reduced downtime, fewer repairs, lower turnover) often outweighs the training cost.
Records, Authorisation and Ongoing Monitoring Post Forklift Training Course
Once training is complete, keep a clear record of: course type, date, trainer, assessment notes, truck categories authorised and who authorised the operator.
Ensure supervisors understand how to monitor performance and when to request refreshers, these steps are part of the employer’s duty to maintain competence.
Next Steps for You
- Assess which trucks, sites and staff need training.
- Choose an accredited provider that offers forklift training on your site and documented assessments.
- Book theory e-learning where possible to reduce on-site time.
- Document results, authorise operators formally and schedule periodic refreshers.
Want Help Organising Forklift Training for Your Team?
If you’d like a fast quote or a tailored onsite schedule, JTW Training offers nationwide, accredited courses, flexible group or individual sessions, online theory modules and experienced instructors across the UK. Call 0800 781 4739 or contact us here to get started today.