How Often Should Forklift Operators Have Refresher Training?

Keeping Operators Safe, Competent and Compliant

Forklift trucks are one of the most commonly used pieces of materials handling equipment in warehouses, factories, engineering workshops and distribution centres across the UK. While most employers ensure new operators receive formal training, many overlook the importance of regular refresher training.

At GH Training, we are an AITT Accredited Training Provider, delivering professional on-site forklift operator training throughout the North West, helping businesses maintain safety, compliance and operator confidence.

Is Refresher Training a Legal Requirement?

Although there is no fixed legal expiry date for a forklift operator's training certificate, employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 to ensure operators remain competent.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that employers monitor operator performance and provide refresher training whenever necessary.

Many businesses choose to provide refresher training every three to five years, although this should always be based on risk rather than simply the passage of time.

When Should Refresher Training Be Carried Out?

Refresher training should be considered when:

It has been several years since the operator received formal training.
An operator has been involved in an accident or near miss.
Unsafe driving habits or poor operating practices have been observed.
New equipment has been introduced.
Workplace layouts or operating conditions have changed.
Operators return after a prolonged absence.
Employers wish to maintain high safety standards.

Regular assessments help ensure operators continue to follow safe working practices and remain confident when operating forklift trucks.

What Does Refresher Training Cover?

At GH Training, every refresher course is tailored to the needs of the business and the experience of the operators.

Training typically includes:

Daily pre-use inspections.
Safe operating techniques.
Load assessment and stability.
Safe stacking and de-stacking.
Pedestrian awareness.
Workplace hazards.
Battery charging or LPG safety.
Practical operating assessment.
Updated best practice and current guidance.

Courses can be delivered using your own equipment on your own site, ensuring operators are assessed within their normal working environment.

Benefits of Regular Refresher Training

Providing refresher training offers far more than regulatory compliance.

Benefits include:

Improved Workplace Safety

Regular training helps reduce accidents involving pedestrians, property damage and equipment misuse.

Increased Operator Confidence

Experienced operators often develop poor habits over time. Refresher training reinforces correct techniques and improves confidence.

Reduced Costs

Forklift accidents can result in damaged stock, damaged racking, vehicle repairs and costly downtime.

Investing in refresher training is often significantly less expensive than dealing with the consequences of an avoidable incident.

Demonstrating Employer Due Diligence

Providing regular operator assessments demonstrates that your business takes health and safety seriously and is actively managing competence within the workplace.