If you want to be a forklift driver then UK health and safety stipulates that you will need to get your forklift certification and training and this site aims to give you all the advice and information for you to get certified and get a job. Certification will sometimes be referred to as a forklift licence, but there is no actual licence involved and just a certificate for completing training and proving your competancy.

Why do I need certification?

As mentioned, you will need your certification to comply with health and safety as it is a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and Regulation 9 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) that you get the required training for any mechanical equipment you are operating and this includes forklifts.  If you get a job which requires you to operate a forklift then you will have to undergo this forklift certification which your employer will have to provide, but if you already have your certification then you are one step ahead of other workers and this can increase your chances of employment.

There are also financial benefits as having your forklift certification will instantly make you a more attractive prospect to potential employers and could also result in increased wages and salary so what’s stopping you getting your certification?

What’s involved?

Courses vary from 1 day to 5 days depending on your level of experience, ranging from novice to refresher training, and so there is no typical content but subjects involved will include theory and practical of operating a forklift along with various safety aspects and best-practice when using a heavy  and potentially dangerous piece of equipment like a forklift.

Most of the time these costs can be covered by your employer so have a look around, get the info, and get trained.