B2 and B3 Heavy Counterbalance Forklift Training
GH Training provides practical, AITT-accredited B2 and B3 counterbalance forklift training for employers operating heavy-capacity lift trucks across the North West, North Wales and West Yorkshire.
B2 covers rider counterbalance lift trucks over 5,000 kg up to and including 15,000 kg. B3 covers rider counterbalance lift trucks above 15,000 kg. Training is delivered at customer premises using the relevant truck.
B2 and B3 Course Options
Novice Training
For operators with no previous formal training or operating experience on the relevant B2 or B3 counterbalance category.
Typical duration: 3–5 days
Experienced Operator Training
For suitable operators with genuine practical experience on the relevant heavy counterbalance truck but no recognised evidence of formal training.
Typical duration: 2–3 days
Conversion Training
For trained operators moving from another lift-truck category, including B1, to a B2 or B3 heavy counterbalance truck.
Typical duration: 1–2 days
Refresher Training
For previously trained B2 or B3 operators requiring reassessment, updated instruction or additional practical training.
Typical duration: Usually 1 day
Course duration depends on operator experience, the number of learners and the equipment being used. We will confirm the right course after discussing your requirements.
Not Sure Which Course You Need? Complete the Free Training Check
What Are the B2 and B3 Counterbalance Categories?
B2 applies to rider counterbalance lift trucks over 5,000 kg up to and including 15,000 kg. B3 applies to rider counterbalance lift trucks above 15,000 kg.
Training is specific to the truck, its capacity, controls, attachments, loads and operating environment. Course content normally covers:
- Operator responsibilities
- Relevant safety principles
- Pre-use inspections
- Forklift controls and instruments
- Safe starting and stopping
- Steering and manoeuvring
- Operating in confined areas
- Load assessment and handling
- Stacking and de-stacking
- Loading and unloading procedures
- Pedestrian and workplace hazards
- Parking and securing the truck
Courses include relevant theory, practical instruction and operator assessment.
Who Should Attend?
B2 and B3 training may be suitable for employees working with heavy-capacity counterbalance trucks in:
- New employees who will operate a forklift
- Warehouse and distribution staff
- Manufacturing and engineering employees
- Existing operators without formal training
- Trained operators changing truck category
- Operators returning after a period away from driving
- Employees requiring refresher training or reassessment
Operators must be medically fit to use the equipment safely and able to understand the course instruction.
Training at Your Workplace
Training is delivered at your premises using the B2 or B3 counterbalance forklift, representative loads and working environment your operators will encounter.
Your business will normally need to provide:
- A safe and serviceable B2 or B3 counterbalance forklift
- A suitable practical training area
- Relevant equipment documentation
- Representative loads for training
- Appropriate personal protective equipment
We will confirm the requirements before the course begins.
Assessment and Evidence of Training
Operators are assessed through the relevant theory and practical elements of the course.
Those who successfully meet the required standard receive appropriate evidence of training. Employers remain responsible for providing workplace authorisation and ensuring that operators receive any necessary job-specific and familiarisation training.
Why Choose GH Training?
- AITT-accredited training
- Experienced, practical instruction
- Training delivered at your workplace
- Courses for every operator experience level
- Flexible weekday, weekend and shift options
- Theory, practical training and assessment included
Areas We Cover
Based in Newton-le-Willows, we provide counterbalance forklift training throughout:
Merseyside · Greater Manchester · Cheshire · Lancashire · North Wales · West Yorkshire
Key areas include St Helens, Wigan, Warrington, Liverpool, Manchester, Widnes, Runcorn, Preston, Blackburn, Deeside, Wrexham and Leeds.
Arrange B2 or B3 Counterbalance Training
Tell us the truck make and model, rated capacity, attachments, loads handled, number of operators and their previous experience. We will confirm whether B2 or B3 applies and provide a tailored quotation.