Forklift & Forklift Instructor Training in Lancashire
CR Driver Training provides professional Forklift Truck Operator Training and Forklift Instructor Training for businesses and individuals throughout Lancashire and the North West.
Whether you’re completely new to operating forklift trucks, require refresher training, need to convert to a different truck type or want to become a qualified instructor, our experienced trainers will provide practical, industry-recognised tuition tailored to your needs.
All of our courses are delivered by fully qualified ITSSAR-accredited instructors and comply with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice L117 – Rider Operated Lift Trucks.
Training can be delivered either at our fully accredited Category 3 Training Centre or at your own premises, subject to a suitability assessment.
Request a Forklift Training Quote
Forklift Training at a Glance
| Training Available | Forklift Operator & Forklift Instructor Courses |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | ITSSAR Approved |
| Training Standards | HSE Approved Code of Practice L117 |
| Course Levels | Novice, Experienced, Refresher & Conversion |
| Training Location | Our Accredited Centre or Your Premises |
| Suitable For | Individuals & Businesses |
| Coverage | Lancashire & North West |
Who Needs Forklift Training?
Forklift training is essential for anyone operating rider-operated lift trucks in the workplace. Proper training not only improves safety but also helps employers meet their legal obligations under health and safety legislation.
Our courses are suitable for:
- New forklift operators.
- Warehouse staff.
- Distribution centre employees.
- Manufacturing workers.
- Construction companies.
- Builders’ merchants.
- Transport and logistics businesses.
- Local authorities.
- Experienced operators needing certification.
- Employers arranging staff training.
Whether you’re training one employee or an entire workforce, we’ll recommend the most appropriate course for your business.
Our Forklift Training Courses
We offer training on a wide range of industrial trucks and lifting equipment.
Courses include:
- Counterbalance Forklift Trucks.
- Reach Trucks.
- Pedestrian Pallet Stackers (Electric).
- Lorry Mounted Cranes (HIAB).
- Moffett Truck Mounted Forklifts.
- Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) including Scissor Lifts.
We also provide instructor training for specialist equipment including:
- Telehandlers.
- Cherry Pickers.
- Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Trucks.
- Other specialist machinery on request.
Training for Every Experience Level
Not every operator starts at the same level, which is why we offer courses tailored to your previous experience.
Novice Training
Designed for people with little or no previous forklift operating experience. We’ll teach safe operating techniques from the ground up.
Experienced Operator Training
Ideal for operators who regularly use forklift trucks but have never completed an accredited training course or require formal certification.
Refresher Training
Perfect for qualified operators who want to refresh their knowledge, improve safety standards and update their practical operating skills.
Conversion Training
If you’re already qualified on one type of forklift truck, we can provide conversion training to help you safely operate different categories of equipment.
Need Help Choosing the Right Course?
Whether you’re a first-time operator, an experienced driver or an employer booking staff training, we’ll recommend the course that’s right for you.
Call 01253 421001 or contact us online for friendly advice.
Why Choose CR Driver Training?
With experienced instructors, modern training methods and recognised industry accreditation, CR Driver Training delivers high-quality forklift training that helps operators work safely and employers meet their legal responsibilities.
When you train with us you’ll benefit from:
- ITSSAR-accredited instructors.
- Training that complies with HSE Approved Code of Practice L117.
- Modern training facilities.
- On-site workplace training available.
- Flexible course dates.
- Courses for individuals and businesses.
- Professional, friendly instruction.
In the next section we’ll look at each type of forklift training in more detail, explain the specialist equipment we cover and show how our practical courses help operators develop safe, efficient working practices.
Counterbalance Forklift Training
The Counterbalance Forklift Truck is the most common type of forklift used across the UK and is found in warehouses, distribution centres, manufacturing plants and builders’ merchants.
Our Counterbalance courses teach operators how to safely:
- Carry out pre-use safety inspections.
- Handle loads safely.
- Stack and de-stack pallets.
- Operate in confined spaces.
- Load and unload vehicles.
- Work safely around pedestrians.
Whether you’re a novice operator or require refresher training, we’ll ensure you develop the skills needed to operate safely and efficiently.
Reach Truck Training
Reach trucks are designed for warehouses with high racking systems where maximum storage space is required.
Because these machines operate differently from counterbalance trucks, specialist training is essential.
Our Reach Truck training covers:
- Correct operating techniques.
- High-level stacking.
- Working in narrow aisles.
- Safe load handling.
- Warehouse safety procedures.
- Daily vehicle inspections.
Our instructors provide practical tuition designed to build confidence while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Pedestrian Pallet Stacker Training
Pedestrian-operated electric pallet stackers are widely used in warehouses, retail distribution centres and manufacturing environments.
Although smaller than traditional forklift trucks, these machines still require competent operator training.
Training includes:
- Safe operation.
- Battery charging procedures.
- Load handling.
- Working safely around pedestrians.
- Stacking techniques.
- Daily safety checks.
Lorry Mounted Crane (HIAB) Training
HIAB and other lorry-mounted cranes are used throughout the construction, utilities and transport industries for loading and unloading heavy equipment.
Our practical HIAB training helps operators understand:
- Vehicle stability.
- Safe lifting techniques.
- Load security.
- Slinging and lifting principles.
- Pre-use inspections.
- Safe working procedures.
Professional training reduces the risk of accidents while helping employers meet their legal obligations.
Moffett (Truck Mounted Forklift) Training
Moffett forklifts allow drivers to unload vehicles without relying on site equipment, making them popular within the builders’ merchant, timber and construction industries.
Our Moffett courses cover:
- Safe mounting and dismounting.
- Vehicle stability.
- Load handling.
- Working on uneven ground.
- Loading and unloading vehicles.
- Daily maintenance checks.
Our instructors provide practical, hands-on tuition using proven industry techniques.
MEWP & Scissor Lift Training
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), including scissor lifts, are widely used for working safely at height.
Our courses teach operators how to:
- Carry out pre-use inspections.
- Operate equipment safely.
- Assess ground conditions.
- Work safely at height.
- Identify workplace hazards.
- Carry out emergency procedures.
Training helps operators reduce risks while complying with current health and safety legislation.
Specialist Equipment Training
In addition to our core forklift courses, we also provide instructor training and specialist tuition for a variety of industrial equipment.
Training is available for:
- Telehandlers.
- Cherry Pickers.
- Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Trucks.
- Specialist lifting equipment.
- Other workplace machinery on request.
If you’re unsure which course is appropriate for your business, our team will be happy to advise.
Training Tailored to Your Business
Whether you need training for a single operator or an entire workforce, we’ll tailor the course to suit your equipment, working environment and business requirements.
Flexible on-site and centre-based training options are available.
Practical, Hands-On Learning
Our forklift courses place a strong emphasis on practical learning. Every operator has the opportunity to develop their skills under the guidance of experienced ITSSAR instructors before being assessed against recognised industry standards.
In the next section we’ll explain our Forklift Instructor Training programme, workplace training options, Health & Safety responsibilities, certification and why so many businesses across Lancashire choose CR Driver Training.
Forklift Instructor Training
If you have significant experience operating forklift trucks and would like to train others, our Forklift Instructor Training courses provide the knowledge and practical teaching skills required to become an effective workplace instructor.
Instructor training is ideal for companies wishing to deliver training in-house or experienced operators looking to develop their careers.
The course covers:
- Adult learning techniques.
- Planning and delivering training sessions.
- Practical demonstrations.
- Risk assessment.
- Health & Safety legislation.
- Operator assessments.
- Record keeping and certification.
Our experienced trainers will guide you through both the practical and instructional elements required to become a confident forklift instructor.
Training at Our Accredited Centre
Many customers choose to complete their training at our fully accredited Category 3 Training Centre, where operators can learn in a controlled environment using purpose-designed training areas and equipment.
Benefits include:
- Professional training facilities.
- Modern training equipment.
- Safe learning environment.
- Experienced ITSSAR instructors.
- Minimal workplace disruption.
Our centre-based courses are ideal for individuals and smaller businesses requiring recognised forklift qualifications.
On-Site Workplace Training
For many employers, on-site training offers the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Where your premises and equipment are suitable, our instructors can deliver training at your workplace, allowing operators to learn using the machines they use every day.
On-site training can reduce downtime while providing tuition that’s directly relevant to your working environment.
We regularly provide workplace training for:
- Warehouses.
- Distribution centres.
- Manufacturing facilities.
- Builders’ merchants.
- Construction companies.
- Agricultural businesses.
- Transport and logistics operators.
Health & Safety Compliance
Employers have a legal duty to ensure that forklift operators receive suitable training before using workplace equipment.
Our courses comply with the Health and Safety Executive Approved Code of Practice L117 – Rider Operated Lift Trucks, helping employers meet their legal responsibilities while improving workplace safety.
Proper operator training helps:
- Reduce workplace accidents.
- Lower the risk of injuries.
- Protect valuable stock and equipment.
- Improve operating efficiency.
- Demonstrate legal compliance.
Investing in professional forklift training benefits both employers and employees by creating a safer, more productive workplace.
Assessment & Certification
Every course includes both practical and theoretical assessment to ensure operators meet recognised industry standards.
Successful candidates receive certification appropriate to the course completed, providing evidence of their competence and training.
Certification is valuable for:
- Employers demonstrating compliance.
- Employees developing their careers.
- Health & Safety audits.
- Insurance requirements.
- Workplace training records.
Need Training for Several Employees?
We regularly deliver forklift training for businesses across Lancashire, from single operators to entire warehouse teams.
Call 01253 421001 or request a tailored quotation for your business.
Why Choose CR Driver Training?
Choosing the right training provider is essential for developing competent operators and maintaining high workplace safety standards.
At CR Driver Training, we combine experienced instructors, recognised industry accreditation and practical, hands-on tuition to deliver training that’s both engaging and effective.
You’ll benefit from:
- Fully qualified ITSSAR instructors.
- Training that complies with HSE Approved Code of Practice L117.
- Centre-based and on-site training options.
- Courses tailored to your equipment and business.
- Novice, experienced, refresher and instructor courses.
- Friendly, professional support from start to finish.
Forklift Training Throughout Lancashire
We provide professional forklift operator and instructor training throughout Lancashire and the surrounding areas.
We regularly work with businesses and individuals from:
- Blackpool
- Preston
- Blackburn
- Burnley
- Chorley
- Lancaster
- Fleetwood
- Poulton-le-Fylde
- Lytham St Annes
- Garstang
- Accrington
- Clitheroe
- Southport
Whether you’re training a new operator, refreshing existing skills or developing your own workplace instructors, CR Driver Training can provide the right course for your requirements.
In the final section, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about forklift training, provide links to our other driver training courses and explain how to book your course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous forklift experience?
No. Our Novice Forklift Training courses are designed for people with little or no previous experience. Your instructor will teach you everything you need to know, from daily safety checks through to safe load handling and workplace operation.
Do experienced operators need formal training?
Yes. Even if you’ve operated forklift trucks for many years, formal accredited training demonstrates competence and helps employers comply with Health & Safety legislation. We offer Experienced Operator and Refresher courses for drivers who already have practical experience.
Can training take place at our workplace?
Yes. Subject to a suitability assessment, we can deliver forklift training using your own equipment at your premises, allowing employees to learn in the environment where they’ll be working.
Which forklift trucks do you provide training for?
We provide training for Counterbalance Forklift Trucks, Reach Trucks, Pedestrian Pallet Stackers, Moffett Truck Mounted Forklifts, HIAB Lorry Mounted Cranes, MEWPs (including Scissor Lifts) and a range of specialist lifting equipment.
How long does a forklift course take?
Course duration depends on your previous experience, the type of equipment being used and the course level. We’ll recommend the most suitable programme after discussing your requirements.
Do you provide Forklift Instructor Training?
Yes. We offer Forklift Instructor Training for experienced operators who wish to deliver training within their own organisation or develop their careers as professional instructors.
Is the training recognised?
Yes. Our courses are delivered by fully qualified ITSSAR-accredited instructors and comply with the HSE Approved Code of Practice L117, giving employers confidence that training is delivered to recognised industry standards.
Which areas do you cover?
We provide forklift operator and instructor training throughout Lancashire, including Blackpool, Preston, Blackburn, Burnley, Chorley, Lancaster and the surrounding areas.
Book Your Forklift Training Today
Whether you’re looking to train a new forklift operator, refresh existing skills or develop qualified workplace instructors, CR Driver Training offers professional training tailored to your business.
Our experienced instructors deliver practical, engaging courses that help operators work safely, improve efficiency and meet current Health & Safety requirements.
Ready to Arrange Forklift Training?
Speak to our experienced team today.
- ✔ ITSSAR-accredited instructors
- ✔ Novice, experienced and refresher courses
- ✔ Forklift Instructor Training
- ✔ On-site and centre-based training
- ✔ Courses for individuals and businesses
Request Your Forklift Training Quote
Or call 01253 421001
Related Driver Training Guides
If you’re interested in developing your career within the transport, logistics or warehouse industries, these guides may also be useful:
- The Definitive Guide to Acquiring Your HGV Licence
- Benefits of a Career as an HGV Driver
- Funding for HGV Training
- HGV Theory Test Tips
- Class 1 vs Class 2 HGV
- Driver CPC Training
Other Training Courses
CR Driver Training offers a comprehensive range of vocational and workplace training courses throughout Lancashire, including:
- Category C & C+E HGV Training
- Category C1 (7.5 Tonne) Training
- D1 & D1+E Minibus Training
- Category D Bus & Coach Training
- Driver CPC Training
- Transport Manager CPC
- ADR Dangerous Goods Training
- Car & Trailer Towing Training
Why Train with CR Driver Training?
At CR Driver Training, we’re committed to helping operators develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to work safely and efficiently.
From novice forklift operators to experienced instructors, we provide high-quality, practical training that complies with current Health & Safety legislation and recognised industry standards.
Whether you’re booking training for yourself, your employees or your entire workforce, you can rely on our experienced instructors to deliver professional, engaging and effective training.
Contact CR Driver Training today to discuss your forklift training requirements and discover how we can help your business maintain safe, competent and confident operators.