When you are looking to upskill in the construction and warehouse sector, you will probably think about all the opportunities there are for you to consider. You may be starting as an entry level warehouse technician, or you could be a seasoned supervisor, perhaps even an even an apprentice in warehousing.
One avenue that could consider is getting your forklift instructor certification. A career upskill, instructors are constantly in demand to keep businesses and individuals compliant and safe, while being able to sign them off as competent in the use of machinery or apparatuses in question.
But what are the benefits? And how do you become one?
Read our guide to becoming a Forklift instructor, and gain insight into what training includes, the benefits, and earning potential.
Is training to become an instructor hard?
While it can be a challenge, getting your forklift instructor certification isn’t as tough as many would think. Forklift Instructor training is a different type of learning, which involves students learning how to teach and test. If you have a good understanding of the rules, regulations and legislations in relation to Forklift Operating, and you understand the importance of safe Forklift training, then you shouldn’t find the instructor course too difficult.
If you love to teach or train, becoming an instructor maybe the route for you. Having some of the relevant key skills will also help you grasp the course contents.
But before you jump into booking your course, learn why becoming a Forklift Truck (FLT) Instructor is a favourable choice.
Benefits of becoming a Forklift instructor
Increased Earning Potential
Working as an inhouse instructor will save your employer time and costs if they don’t have to outsource a training provider. If you are the business’ inhouse instructor, this could mean better pay, as you will be the dedicated trainer for FLT operating.
Or, you can go freelance, you can become your own boss and go to other business to provide Forklift Operator training.
Better knowledge on the rules
Because Forklift Instructor training is more in depth with the theoretical insight, you can be confident in your instruction. Instructors are direct in their knowledge and training abilities, while also providing clear and concise direction to students when they complete their operating course.
Reducing risk of accidents
While it can’t be completely mitigated, you can most definitely limit the likelihood of accidents occurring in the workplace. On the other hand, because of your in-depth knowledge, you can provide guidance to operators who may conduct bad operating practices.
So, now you know why it is a great idea to become an FLT instructor, how do you become one?
How to become an instructor
Before you book your course with 2 Start, you need to have at least 12 months FLT operating experience. You will also complete at most, ten days of training. The course contents include how to teach the theory aspect of a course as well as learn how to provide proper instruction for the practical FLT use. You will also go through L117 Approved Code of Practice, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and the Lifting Operating & Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).
How long is my certification valid for?
Once you complete your course and pass your tests, you will be awarded your instructor certificate, which is valid for five years from date of passing your course. 2 Start’s FLT instructor course allows you to teach Counterbalance training. You can send copies of other forklift certificates you have gained to ITSSAR, and they can add these categories to your instructor card.
If you want to renew your certification, you can complete re-registration training. Although, it must still be valid from when you retrain. Alternatively, if you have a current instructor certification, but with a different governing body, you can complete a direct entry course and transfer it for an ITSSAR accredited certification.
How much does a forklift instructor get paid?
An initial salary for a Forklift instructor is in the bracket of £18,000 to £26,000 annually. However, this isn’t an accurate representation as to what you would most likely be earning, as you may have other job roles within your business. Also, those who are becoming a freelance instructor will set their own prices, so this can be significantly different too.
What courses do 2 Start offer?
2 Start provides ITSSAR accredited Forklift instructor training. Choose from our Novice, Re-Registration or Direct Entry course to complete, and you can gain your FLT instructor certification in ten days!
Book instantly online, or call our team on 02392 123 555 who will help you get your training booked.
