We had a call the other day from someone looking to renew a forklift licence that expired more than 10 years ago. His goal? Get it all done in a single day.
We get it, time is money. But when it comes to safety and compliance, trying to fast-track the process can land you in deep trouble, not to mention embarrassment in the workplace.
A Harsh Reality Check
Under Queensland regulations, if your high-risk work licence has been expired for more than 12 months, you’re essentially starting from scratch. That means:
- Separate days for training and assessment
- Demonstrating both theoretical knowledge and practical skills
- Meeting current WHSQ (Work Health & Safety Queensland) standards
We explained that while we can offer a fast-tracked training option, it still involves a challenge test and a full day of refresher training. No logbook needed, sure. But definitely no shortcuts when it comes to safe operation.
His response?
“I’ll just go with another provider down the road. They said they can do it in a day.”
And that’s where we draw the line.
One Day Wonder? More Like a Safety Blunder.
Let’s be clear, you cannot do both training and assessment on the same day. Not if it’s being done properly. Not if it’s being done to WHSQ standards. Not if safety actually matters.
Forklift operation isn’t just about ticking boxes and passing a test. It’s about knowing what you’re doing so you don’t end up damaging stock, hurting someone, or worse. Our WHSQ-approved trainer/assessor was blunt:
“There’s just no way to properly bring someone up to the current standard, especially after 10+ years, in a single day.”
The risks? Massive.
- Unsafe operation
- Workplace accidents
- Injury or worse
- Loss of job or legal trouble
Would you hire a pilot who hasn’t flown in 10 years and got “recertified” after a 2-hour crash course? Yeah, I didn’t think so.
Skills Build Confidence. Confidence Builds Careers.
There’s no pride in being that person who fumbles through a forklift job while everyone’s watching. Employers notice. Your teammates notice. If you’re not confident, you’re not safe, and that’s on whoever “trained” you.
We train our students to walk into the workplace with their heads held high, not hoping no one notices they barely know what they’re doing.
Bottom Line?
Shortcuts cut corners. Corners cut people.
There is absolutely no way to deliver proper forklift training and a formal assessment on the same day, and anyone saying otherwise isn’t doing the job right.
If you value your safety, your reputation, and your future in the industry, choose a provider that trains you properly. Not quickly. We’re here to do it right, not just fast.
Ready to do it right? Secure your place with a quick booking here: https://fms.edu.au/courses/forklift-training/