Does Your Forklift Training Need Renewing? A Guide to Forklift Refresher Training
When was the last time your forklift operators received training?
Was it three years ago? Five years ago? Or perhaps so long ago that nobody can quite remember?
It’s a question we regularly come across at Kentra Training, particularly when businesses are reviewing their staff training records.
One of the biggest areas of confusion is forklift refresher training. Does a forklift certificate actually expire? Is refresher training a legal requirement? And how often should your operators be reassessed?
The answers might surprise you!
Does Forklift Training Expire?
Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a universal legal expiry date for forklift operator training in the UK.
Unlike a driving licence, forklift training accreditation records the training and assessment an operator has successfully completed. NPORS operator cards have their own validity periods depending on the card scheme, but these shouldn’t be confused with a universal legal expiry date for forklift training.
Employers have a responsibility to ensure their operators remain competent and can operate equipment safely.
It’s important to remember that an operator card may have its own validity period, but this doesn’t automatically determine when an operator requires refresher training or reassessment.
For example, NPORS operator cards have their own validity periods depending on the card scheme. These should not be confused with a universal legal expiry date for forklift training.
How Often Should Forklift Refresher Training Be Carried Out?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not specify a fixed legal interval for forklift refresher training.
However, its guidance suggests that employers may choose to arrange refresher training or reassessment at set intervals, for example every three to five years, to help ensure operators maintain their competence.
At Kentra Training, we generally recommend reviewing refresher training requirements every 3–5 years, depending on the operator’s experience, working environment and individual circumstances.
But remember, this is a recommendation, not an automatic legal expiry date.
Some operators may require additional training much sooner, especially if there has been an accident or incident.
Five Signs Your Forklift Operators May Need Refresher Training
Even experienced forklift operators can develop bad habits over time.
Here are five situations where it may be time to consider refresher training or reassessment.
1. It’s Been Several Years Since Their Last Training
If your operators haven’t received refresher training or undergone reassessment for several years, now is a good opportunity to review their competence.
2. They’ve Developed Unsafe Working Habits
Complacency can develop gradually, particularly when operators perform the same tasks every day.
Poor observation, incorrect load handling and unsafe operating practices are all reasons to investigate whether further training is required.
3. They’ve Been Involved in an Accident or Near Miss
An accident or near miss should prompt a review of the circumstances, including whether operator competence or training played a part.
Additional training or reassessment may be appropriate before the operator returns to normal duties.
4. Their Working Environment Has Changed
Have you introduced new racking systems, different loads, unfamiliar attachments or changes to your warehouse layout?
Even experienced operators may need additional instruction or training when their working conditions change.
5. They Haven’t Used a Forklift for Some Time
Someone who completed forklift training several years ago but has rarely operated a truck since may need additional support before returning to regular operation.
A reassessment can help identify whether their knowledge and practical skills remain at the required standard.
What Does Forklift Refresher Training Involve?
Forklift refresher training is designed for operators who have previously received formal training but would benefit from revisiting their knowledge and practical skills.
At Kentra Training, our Refresher & Test option typically involves:
- Reviewing safe operating procedures
- Revisiting pre-use inspections
- Reinforcing safe load handling and manoeuvring
- Identifying and correcting unsafe habits
- Practical and theoretical reassessment
For suitable candidates, we can normally accommodate up to three operators in one day, depending on the equipment and training requirements.
The actual training needed should always reflect the operators’ competence and any areas requiring improvement.
Refresher Training or Experienced Worker Test – What’s the Difference?
This is another question we regularly receive when customers are arranging forklift training.
Although both options involve assessment, they are designed for different circumstances.
Refresher & Test
Suitable for previously trained operators who would benefit from refresher training and remedial tuition before reassessment.
- Normally one day
- Up to three candidates
- Includes refresher tuition and testing
Experienced Worker Test (Assessment Only)
Suitable for experienced operators who already have the necessary knowledge and practical skills and simply require a formal assessment.
- Normally one day
- Up to four candidates
- Assessment only – no training or tuition included
It’s important to choose the appropriate route. An experienced worker assessment is not a substitute for training where an operator has gaps in their knowledge or competence.
Not sure which option is right for your operators? Tell us about their previous training and experience, and we’ll be happy to help you identify the most suitable option.
Does Refresher Training Cover Different Types of Forklift Trucks?
Forklift training and assessments relate to the categories of equipment being operated. For example, an operator trained on a Counterbalance Forklift isn’t automatically trained to operate a Reach Truck or Pivot Steer Truck. Additional conversion training may be required before operating different categories of equipment.
At Kentra Training, we provide training for a wide range of equipment, including:
- Counterbalance Forklift Trucks
- Reach Trucks
- Pivot Steer (Bendi) Trucks
- Pallet Stackers
- Sideloader Trucks
- Multidirectional Forklift Trucks
- Very Narrow Aisle Trucks
- Lorry Mounted Forklifts
If your business operates several types of lift truck, we can help you identify the appropriate training requirements.
Why Regular Forklift Refresher Training Matters
Forklift training isn’t simply about obtaining an operator card.
It’s about maintaining safe working practices and ensuring employees have the knowledge and skills to carry out their duties safely.
Regular monitoring, reassessment and appropriate refresher training can help businesses:
- Identify unsafe operating habits
- Reinforce correct procedures
- Maintain operator competence
- Support workplace health and safety
- Keep training records up to date
- Reduce the risk of accidents and equipment damage
It’s also worth remembering that employers should monitor their operators’ performance between formal training sessions, rather than relying solely on a date in the training records.
Forklift Refresher Training at Your Workplace
At Kentra Training, we understand that releasing employees for training can be difficult, particularly in busy warehouses and manufacturing environments.
That’s why we come to you!
Our instructors deliver training at your workplace, using your own equipment, subject to suitable facilities and equipment being available.
We offer both NPORS-accredited training and Kentra Training in-house training, with successful candidates receiving the appropriate operator ID card.
Since 1997, Kentra Training has been helping businesses provide practical, professional workplace training. We’re always happy to help businesses identify the most suitable training options for their staff.
Planning Your Forklift Training for 2027?
With the new year approaching, now is an ideal time to review your operator training records.
Are your forklift operators due for refresher training?
Whether you have one experienced operator requiring reassessment or a team needing refresher training, Kentra Training can help.
We deliver training at your workplace, with NPORS-accredited and Kentra in-house options available.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements and request a quotation.
📞 01606 832 556
For further information, you can also read the HSE’s guidance on Lift Truck Training.
Did you know we offer more than just forklift training? From plant machinery and lifting operations to horticulture and health and safety, discover our full range of workplace training courses.
Kentra Training Ltd – Making Safety Second Nature Since 1997!
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