What does a Rough Terrain Forklift do?

A Rough Terrain Forklift is a type of forklift designed to operate on uneven or rough terrain, commonly used in heavy civil construction projects for lifting and moving materials and equipment.

What are the main responsibilities on a Construction Site?

  • Transporting materials and equipment across uneven or rough terrain.
  • Loading and unloading trucks and trailers.
  • Positioning materials and equipment in designated areas.
  • Assisting with construction tasks by lifting and placing heavy items.
  • Performing routine maintenance and safety checks on the forklift.

What qualifications do you need to operate one?

  • Valid Forklift Operator certification (e.g., CPCS or NPORS) specific to rough terrain forklifts in Rough Terrain Forklift.
  • Health and safety certifications, such as CSCS or equivalent.
  • On-the-job training and experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Good understanding of construction site regulations and safety protocols.

What are the key skills you need to operate a Rough Terrain Forklift?

  • Proficiency in operating a rough terrain forklift in various weather and terrain conditions.
  • Strong spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination for precise manoeuvring.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans and material lists.
  • Attention to detail to ensure safe loading, unloading, and transporting of materials.
  • Good communication skills to coordinate with other workers and supervisors.

What are the progression opportunities for a Rough Terrain Forklift Operator?

  • Advancement to supervisory roles, such as Site Foreman or Construction Manager, with experience and further training.
  • Specialisation in operating other types of heavy equipment or machinery.
  • Upskilling through additional training and certifications in related fields such as construction management or health and safety.
  • Opportunities to work on larger construction projects or in different sectors of the construction industry.