As the warehouse sector continues to grow to accommodate for the explosion of Ecommerce businesses, the demand for trained forklift operators is at an all-time high. 

Forklift operators make up over 15% of all warehousing employees, playing an important role in moving the stock and ensuring it leaves the warehouse on time. But using a forklift isn’t easy. Without adequate training and certification, forklift operators quickly become a danger and a liability. 

So how can organisations keep up with the fast delivery of Ecommerce products without causing injury?

Virtual Reality Forklift Training

Virtual Reality forklift training is one of the latest innovations in forklift technology. As the software uses a simulator to create a realistic and challenging environment, businesses are able to avoid damage and save on resources when hiring their next group of forklift operators. 

Though VR training is quick and cost-effective, it’s still a valid certification approved by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 

What’s Involved In Virtual Reality Forklift Training?

A real forklift truck is plugged into a VR port to simulate a warehouse. Using the controls and a VR headset, drivers can familiarise themselves with the operations without having to worry about causing an accident in the workplace.

The software includes a range of lessons and tutorials, recreating real-life scenarios to ensure the individual is prepared in all aspects of forklift operation. Once a training session is complete, the technology provides a set of data and statistics, informing the driver of areas they need to improve on.

What Are The Benefits Of Virtual Reality Forklift Training?

1. It’s safer – As it’s a non-moving hardware, there’s no risk of inexperienced operators causing injury or damage to the business.
2. More efficient – The training of each driver can be reduced from 45 hours to 12 hours. As the simulator is available on-site, employees can complete their training at any time of the day without the need for an external instructor.
3. Customisable – Most forklift simulators can be customised to recreate specific environments and working conditions such as fork attachments and load, danger zones, maneuvers, and traffic. 
4. Data Driven – Virtual reality training courses provide continuous feedback to help the individual improve their skills before operating a real forklift truck.

Once your drivers have completed their virtual reality forklift training, you might be in need of more forklift trucks to meet the demands of an eCommerce warehouse. We have a wide range of new and used forklift trucks to choose from – contact us today or call 0800 298 8790 to make your purchase.