counterbalanced forklift operator's practical training course
Stacking and de-stacking at different levels
Now the trainees can use the hydraulic controls, the next lessons are about stacking. The stacks can be constructed using any naturally occurring materials such as packs of pallets, racking, free standing stacks or stillages and any other fixture providing it's safe!
The three heights used in the test are defined by the ABA guide are as follows:
- Low level. On the floor or thereabouts
- Eye level. Level with the operator's eyes when seated on the truck
- High level. The highest height in use at a given premises or at least 3 m.
All stacking heights should be taught eventually but some of these can be covered during specific job training which should follow the test.
The following slides show one stacking and de-stacking sequence only but the principle remains the same for any height of stack. The instructor should obviously inform the trainees of additional hazards due to height etc. Before picking up their first load trainees should be taught how to adjust the width of the forks to suit the load as shown here. (Opens in new window).
A separate stacking sequence for reach trucks is shown here.
You can see a video of a correct high level stacking sequence for a counterbalanced truck here.