A UK college is putting pallet trucks to use in a novel new way by using the warehouse workhorse as a means of helping job seekers find employment.
Bridgewater College in the North East of England has run an innovative six day training programme designed specifically for people out of work. It teaches essential skills for a series of roles in warehouse, driving, administration and catering. As part of the warehouse segment of the skills course, it has taught those out of work how to safely and correctly use both pallet trucks and forklift trucks.
The course has been funded by Supermarket chain, Morrisons which is opening a new store in the area. It came up with the job skills programme as a means of equipping those out of work and applying for a role with desirable skills and practical experience to place on their CV.
The Bridgewater College training programme has helped candidates to use pallet trucks safely and confidently, using simulated warehouse environments to make the experience as realistic as possible. The college has reported an overwhelming response to the programme, with anyone successfully completing the course guaranteed an interview for a job at the new superstore.
Midland Pallet Trucks, the pallet trucks and pump truck specialists who offer a wide selection of hand pallet trucks, weighing scale trucks, high lift pallet trucks and other dedicated materials handling equipment has welcomed the course. Phil Chesworth, managing director said, “One of the big advantages of pallet trucks over equipment such as forklifts is that they don’t require expensive and prolonged training and examinations in order to operate. However, it is essential that the operators are skilled in the correct and safe use before using a pallet truck as part of their day to day operations.
“It is fantastic to see that a college and a major supermarket chain have both recognised this and given credence to the safe operation of such equipment as a job skill. It’s very encouraging that they have taken steps to ensure suitable handling and that they consider knowledgeable operation to be a desirable job skill.”
To find out more about the range of pallet trucks from Midland Pallet Trucks and to order securely online, please visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com or Tel: 01384 841440.