RTITB Counterbalance Lift Truck (LTG1)

Course Overview

This course provides comprehensive training in the safe and effective operation of counterbalance lift trucks (commonly known as a forklift truck). We run courses suitable for new and experienced operators working in warehouse, logistics, distribution, or manufacturing environments. The course covers machine controls, load handling, safety procedures, and legal responsibilities. Completing this training prepares candidates for roles such as warehouse operator, forklift driver, or yard technician where handling palletised or heavy goods is routine.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• To understand the main risks associated with lift truck operations
• To know the essential components and controls of a counterbalance lift truck and how they operate
• To carry out pre-use inspections to ensure the lift truck is safe to use
• To be able to manoeuvre the lift truck safely, including in confined spaces
• To correctly stack and de-stack loads at different heights
• To understand how to assess load weight, balance and stability
• To identify hazardous situations and how to respond to them
• To demonstrate safe parking and shutdown procedures
• To understand operator responsibilities under relevant legislation

ABA Categories

Each course will be run using ONE of the following categories, please ensure you book the course that uses the category you require.

• B1 – Counterbalance Lift Truck (up to 5,000kg)
• B2 – Counterbalance Lift Truck (over 5,000kg and up to 10,000kg)
• B4 – Stand-on Counterbalance Lift Truck

Experience Levels

• Novice – For individuals with no forklift experience. Suitable for complete beginners entering warehousing or logistics roles. No prior operating skills required—covers everything from scratch.
• Existing – For those who’ve used counterbalance trucks informally but haven’t had formal training or certification. They’re familiar with controls and operations but need official instruction and assessment.
• Refresher – For certified operators needing to renew or update their training—typically every 3–5 years or after an incident. Must have completed formal training previously and used trucks recently.
• Conversion – For operators already certified on a different type of lift truck (e.g., reach truck) who now need to switch to counterbalance trucks. Prior certification and relevant experience are required.

Assessment Methods

This course is assessed through practical skills demonstrations and a written theory test to ensure that learners can operate a counterbalance lift truck safely and in compliance with industry standards and legal requirements.

Additional Information

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, in good physical health, and capable of meeting the demands of practical training. An adequate level of English literacy is also required to fully engage with the course content and assessments. This course can also be offered as an in-house COTS Certification.