CoLa Training Services

Counterbalance Forklift Training in Boston, Lincolnshire
CoLa Training provides accredited counterbalance forklift training for new, experienced and qualified operators at our training centre in Boston Lincolnshire, with workplace training also available for businesses across Lincolnshire and the UK.
Whether you're learning to operate a counterbalance forklift for the first time, already have workplace experience or simply need refresher training, we'll make sure you're booked onto the right course for your level of experience.
Training is practical, straightforward and designed to give operators the skills and confidence to use a counterbalance forklift safely in the workplace.
The industrial counterbalance is one of the most common types of industrial forklift. Most at home in factory environments, warehouses, and industrial settings these machines are flexible enough to meet most demands.
Currently in four categories:
B1 - up to 5000kg
B2 - 5001kg to 15000kg
B3 - 15001kg and above
B4 - Stand on machine
For information on course lengths and contents, please see below

Who is this for?
Our Industrial Counterbalance Forklift courses are designed for anyone who needs to operate a counterbalance forklift safely and competently in the workplace. Whether you're completely new to forklift operation or looking to refresh your existing skills, we offer training to suit your level of experience.
These courses are ideal for:
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Individuals with no previous forklift experience who require novice training.
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Experienced operators who need refresher training to maintain safe working practices.
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Operators who already hold certification but require conversion training to operate a different type of forklift.
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Employees returning to forklift operation after an extended period away from the role.
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Businesses looking to ensure their workforce is trained to current industry standards and best practices.
Our training combines classroom-based theory with practical, hands-on instruction, helping delegates develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to operate industrial counterbalance forklifts safely and efficiently in a variety of working environments.
Course Content
Theory -
Safe operating practices and environmental impacts
Practical -
Pre-use inspections
Parts of a forklift and use of controls
Basic manoeuvring (starting, stopping & turning)
Negotiating confined areas loaded and unloaded
Stacking loads to different heights in working aisle
Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
We offer different levels of counterbalance forklift training depending on your existing experience and qualifications.
Not sure which course you need? Get in touch and we'll be happy to advise you.
INDUSTRIAL COUNTERBALANCE - NOVICE
For operators with little or no forklift experience.
Between 3-5 Days Depending on candidate numbers
Our novice counterbalance course is designed for anyone who has not previously received formal forklift training.
The course combines theory and practical training, giving operators a thorough understanding of how to operate a counterbalance forklift safely and confidently.
Training includes pre-use checks, safe operating procedures, manoeuvring, stacking and de-stacking, load handling and the responsibilities of a forklift operator.
Operators will compete both a theoretical and practical assessments as part of their training.
Ideal for: New forklift operators with no previous formal training.
Industrial Counterbalance - Experienced
For operators who already have practical experience but haven't received formal accredited training.
2 Day
If you already operate a counterbalance forklift in the workplace but have never completed recognised formal training, our experienced operator course may be the right option for you.
This course builds on your existing practical experience whilst ensuring you understand current safe working practices, operator responsibilities and correct forklift operating procedures.
You'll complete both theoretical and practical assessments to demonstrate that you can operate the equipment safely and competently.
If you're unsure wether you have enough previous experience to qualify for this course, contact us before booking and we'll help you choose the appropriate training.
Ideal for: Regular counterbalance forklift operators without a recognised qualification
Industrial Counterbalance - Refresher
For previously trained qualified counterbalance forklift operators
1 Day
Refresher training helps experienced operators maintain safe working practices, correct bad habits that may have developed over time and demonstrate that they remain competent to operate a counterbalance forklift safely.
Refresher training may also be appropriate following an accident or near miss, a period away from forklift trucks, changes in working practices or where an employer has identified a need for further training..
Want to know when refresher training is recommended? Read our guide: How often should Forklift Operators Be Refresher Trained in the UK
Industrial Counterbalance - Conversion from Industrial Reach
For a qualified operator who needs to train on a different type or category of forklift truck
1 Day
Conversion training is suitable for operators who already hold recognised training on one type of forklift truck but need to operate a counterbalance forklift or need training on a different category or capacity of counterbalance.
Because the operator already has recognised lift truck experience, conversion training can focus on the differences between the equipment, controls, handling characteristics and safe operating procedures.
contact us with details of your existing qualification and the equipment you will be using and we'll advise you on the appropriate training.
Ideal for: Existing qualified lift truck operators moving to another truck type or category.
GET A QUOTE
If you are unsure which course to choose, please tell us about your current qualifications, and we will advise you on the course that best meets your needs. Alternatively, let us know which course you are interested in, and we will be happy to assist