RTITB has developed a new training course for manual pallet truck operators to help reduce manual handling injuries in the workplace.
Manual handling refers to transporting or supporting a load by hand or bodily force. It includes lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying, or moving loads, which includes the operation of manual pallet trucks (sometimes known as hand pallet trucks or ‘pump’ trucks). Statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that the transportation injury has an above average rate of musculoskeletal injuries, many of which are likely to be linked to manually handling goods and could be avoided with the correct training.
“Manual pallet trucks are in common use in warehouses, trailers and loading bays – these small trucks help keep things running, especially at the moment where the supply chain is under pressure,” says Laura Nelson, Managing Director for RTITB. “But they do carry risks to the health and safety of users and those around them, so the correct operator training is critical.”
With the new Trainers’ Guide for Pedestrian-Operated Manual Pallet Truck Low-Level (Accrediting Bodies Association (ABA) Code Z1), RTITB is the first accrediting body to develop a comprehensive suite of training materials for a Z1 truck. This includes a Trainer’s Guide, PowerPoint presentation, question papers, handouts, and more, giving Instructors ready-to-go training materials that support both safety and compliance with relevant regulations.
This means there is no need for Instructors to spend time developing course materials, and in-house training teams and training providers are left with no uncertainty on whether the materials are correct, compliant, and up to date.
The course includes an introduction to the truck, manoeuvring laden and unladen, truck and load stability, and load assessment. An overview of relevant regulations, correct pre-use inspection and working with dock levellers and tail lifts are also covered. The course concludes with a thorough theory, pre-use, and practical assessment.
The new truck Trainers’ Guide comes on a handy USB stick containing all the helpful resources an Instructor needs, such as a PowerPoint presentation and a range of engaging materials that support different training methods, such as quizzes and discussions. Question papers, test marking sheets and a record of training are also included for simple administration.
As the guide is provided paperless on a USB, organisations can save money by only printing what they need. As less paper is wasted, it also provides a more environmentally friendly solution for businesses aiming to be greener.
The new RTITB Trainer’s Guide LTG72 (ABA Code Z1) Pedestrian-Operated Manual Pallet Truck Low-Level is available now from the RTITB Shop for £99+VAT.
