AITT will resume physical audits in June

The Association of Industrial Truck Trainers (AITT) has maintained its operations despite the lockdown in the UK, conducting electronic audits of AITT training providers via video conferencing software.

The association undertook 23 audits to ensure training providers were still being adequately monitored without the need for putting its staff and the providers at risk.

"The audits have been well received. So much so, we now plan to offer this as a permanent option for our training providers, providing they do not have outstanding sanctions, and a physical visit is still done every alternate year," says Adam Smith, managing director of AITT.

AITT will restart physical audits in June and will take "additional measures to make sure the audits will be completed in line with COVID-19 government guidance". The association recently released guidelines for those involved in materials handling equipment training amid the current pandemic.

"Understandably, social distancing guidelines meant that some companies and training providers were unsure how to offer safe training during the pandemic. But it is vital that training continues, particularly as so many key industries rely on staff to operate materials handling equipment," says Smith.


"Although social distancing presents a challenge, it is not a reason to forgo training altogether, and under no circumstances should companies let untrained operators use equipment. By taking all the necessary precautions, it is still possible to train candidates effectively and efficiently, while minimising risk."

More information about the training guidelines is available here.