I only have the allotted time allowed by the customer to review the practical testing.
This does NOT allow much time to fully review each operators' ability to drive and use the controls, however, I do make the most of it.

The issue lies with the system whereby there are recommendations, but these recommendations are not enforced. So, it is up to the individual trainer to do what is right, but not always the case.

I, for one, unlike some others, do watch each particiapnt operate the lift trucks. In order to be deemed competent, the participant must operate each class of lift truck, and be evaluated on them. Depending upon the class of lift truck, the practical test will vary. The sit-down forklift, if the operator is experienced, and good, should take approximately 7-10 minutes. I can tell within the first 20 seconds how capable the operator is. Usually, they run through a series of pylons, with a load, forward and reverse, and then park the truck. They are scored by points, however the numerical value does not detemine their level of competency. An individual with a final score of 94 may not be as qualified as an operator who scores 89, based upon an 85 passing grade. Several factors, including the time element, knowledge of controls, nervousness and confidence all make up my determination as to whether the individual has indeed passed, and what level of competency was achieved.

A situation whereby I cannot fully view their abilities, due to space limitations or weather, may result in the top performers only receiving a site specific certification, meaning that they are only qualified to operate the truck in question, at that premise only.

Power pallet truck testing is less involved, narrow aisle reach testing is different, as in the stockpicker. Every class of lift truck has its own testing program, and I do my best to follow it rigorously.

As mentioned, time is an issue with all employers. Whether it is 730-4, 8-5, whatever it is, generally they do not like paying overtime, and that squeezes me. I do my best to evaluate each participant the best I could, in the allotted time.

When teaching at the college, I am afforded a fully day of tutoring, and testing, each student. We start from the ground up, and practice each leg of the course, over and over, until we finally have them up to par on completing the entire course properly. The full day does make a difference, but I can only get away with that at the college, and not in an industrial or commercial workplace.