10 Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Forklift Practical Test

If you’re about to undergo your forklift practical test, it’s natural to feel a little nervous. However, knowing the most common mistakes and how to avoid them can help boost your confidence. Here at East Midlands Forklifts, we’re committed to ensuring you’re fully prepared for your forklift driver training. We’ve listed the 10 most common forklift driving test mistakes to keep an eye out for.

10 Mistakes to Avoid During a Forklift Practical Test

1. Poor Forklift Operator Behaviour

A calm, collected and professional demeanour is crucial during your test. Acting recklessly, speeding or ignoring basic safety precautions can lead to automatic failure. Remember, the key to avoiding this mistake is to stay calm, focused and respect all safety guidelines.

2. Forgetting to Wear the Seatbelt

Your seatbelt is your best defence in case of a tip-over. Make it a habit to put it on as soon as you’re seated in the forklift.

 

3. Incorrect Tilt When Travelling

When moving with a load, the forks should be tilted back to keep the load secure. Without the correct tilt, the load could slip off the forks, resulting in potential damage and injury.

4. Failing to Use the Horn

The horn isn’t there just for show — it’s a vital communication tool. Use it when approaching corners, doorways or when reversing.

 

5. Not Communicating Effectively

Clear and effective communication is crucial in a busy warehouse environment. Whether it’s hand signals, using your horn or verbal communication, always make sure your intentions are clear.

6. Forgetting to Carry Out a Pre-Shift Inspection

Before you start your shift, a pre-shift inspection is mandatory. It’s a key component of forklift safety inspections to ensure your machine is in good working order.

 

7. Not Loading Material Properly

Improperly loaded material can affect the stability of the forklift and lead to accidents. Always make sure the load is even and secure before moving.

8. Fails to Look in The Direction of Travel

Always look in the direction you’re travelling in. This seems simple, but it’s an easy mistake to make, especially when reversing.

 

9. Fails to Apply Handbrake or Neutral

Forgetting to apply the handbrake or put the forklift in neutral when stationary is a common error. Always ensure the forklift is secure before leaving it unattended.

10. Speeding

Remember, a forklift is not a race car. Always keep your speed within the safety limits.

 

Forklift Driver Training

To prepare yourself adequately for your forklift practical test, comprehensive forklift driver training is key. Here at East Midlands Forklifts, we offer forklift training courses in Leicester, Derby and Nottingham. Our training courses ensure you have all the skills necessary to become a certified and safe forklift operator.

Looking to get your forklift licence? Contact East Midlands Forklifts today to learn more about our forklift driver training.