Driving training forward
August 1st 2006

Effective materials handling operations are dependent on a number of elements, including the skill of the operator. Appropriate training is essential, as Louise Mathias of BT Rolatruc explains

The subject of accidents in the workplace is top of the agenda for many organisations: how to improve the process, limit risks and ensure that management and workforce recognise, comply with, and adhere to safe working practices are all key areas of concern.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reports that in 2004/2005 there were 150 559 workplace injuries resulting in a total of seven million working days lost. The report does not identify accidents that are attributable to any particular type of equipment being used but in discussions with the HSE it confirmed that in 2005 there were 2566 reportable accidents directly involving lift trucks.

The cost of these accidents to employers is enormous. The HSE reports that sick pay alone costs 310m a year. On top of this, employers lose between 780 and 4310m each year as a result of damage to goods and machinery, and between 2970 and 5580m a year as a result of output losses. If we total all costs resulting from workplace accidents, employers lose between 2.4 and a staggering 6.4bn a year.

Effective materials handling operations are dependent on a number of crucial elements: a well organised process, suitably trained management and staff, identification and limitation of potential hazards, the right equipment for the job, and a reliable back-up system. Each element is vital in ensuring a safe and efficient working environment. However, it is the skill of the operator that will play a major role in determining the efficiency of the company. An operator who lacks skill and motivation will usually have the greatest impact on overall productivity due to the increased operating costs that result from accidents and errors. A skilled and motivated driver will not only provide higher throughput, but will avoid the risk of additional costs in terms of stock and equipment damage or, worse still, human injury. Costs such as these can be enormous both in financial and personal terms.

It is a legal requirement for all companies to take responsibility for the safety of their employees. In the case of lift truck operators, this means training and certification on the specific types of machinery they are required to operate. While an up-to-date license is a prerequisite for an operator, the development of good driving standards will not only maintain safety in the workplace, but will pay dividends in improved efficiency and will consequently deliver higher levels of overall profitability. The Health and Safety Commission has recognised several accrediting bodies to help set and maintain professional training standards in order to help employers select training organisations or lift truck suppliers who can offer a high standard of training. There are several regulations that need to be adhered to, including: The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), and the Approved Code of Practice for Operator Training, all stipulating that adequate information, training and supervision must be provided to employees involved in the operation of lift trucks.

When looking for a training provider it is important to look for a company that is accredited, has a proven track record in the delivery of training to the highest standard and has the necessary equipment, facilities and professional trainers on board. It should be able to offer a range of courses for all types of lift trucks.

BT has always recognised the benefits that can be made from optimum operator performance and places a high degree of emphasis on ergonomic truck design the first step in ensuring optimum productivity. The company has worked with a number of customers helping to improve staff motivation. This, in turn, has improved performance through increased cost awareness and recognition of individual achievement.

As an RTITB-accredited training provider, BT can meet all training requirements, ranging from the initial planning and organisation to implementation. Training ranges from one-off courses to total training solutions, all of which are designed to maximise the benefits that can be derived from an effective man-machine interface.

Where appropriate, BT will visit a customer's premises to discuss training needs and suggest suitable cost effective solutions at no extra charge. Resident trainers can be provided to work exclusively for a particular company and these will take on board the management and implementation of all training needs, ensuring adherence to all legislative requirements.

For companies with a vast range of training requirements, it may be more cost effective to have their own in-house trainers. BT can provide courses that will bring such trainers up to the required standard, enabling them to train employees efficiently and safely.

Properly trained drivers means businesses with better safety records, greater productivity and lower costs.

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