I work for a Bobcat dealer but we have a training department that we do training for Bobcat equipment, manlifts, and forklifts. My training program was created by another trainer at a separate Bobcat dealer. If you are familiar with the "5 Step Approach to Operator Safety" by JLG... that is the structure of the presentation. 1. Walk Around Check 2.Functions Check 3.Work-Site Hazard Assessment 4.Operator Safety 5.Proper Shutdown.

After the presentation and written test I take the class outside we do a full walk around of the forklift. We talk about what to check over before operation. After the walk around, I conduct a check of the functions to ensure their operation.

Next the students operate on their own with my direct supervision. I don't have a set course, it depends if I'm at my facility or doing on on-site training. I try to construct the course to simulate the basic movements of the forklift. Straight travel, left turn, right turn, placing the load, picking the load back up, and reverse travel through the course to the starting location. The course is not too long, and they only need to complete it once to pass. I have read other posts on this site that require operators to pass through several courses before they pass. I think I will implement that into my own. I know my hands-on evaluation is quite easy and I'm looking to more ideas to make it more challenging.

Your input is greatly appreciated!