When a certificate is issued to a successful operator it should not use the word "Competence". It should read "Certificate of basic training". The accrediting bodies such as the Road Transport Industry Training Board, will not allow accredited training companies to use the word "Competence" on certificates.
The whole point about the certificate of basic training is that it proves, or is supposed to prove, that the person has attended a course of basic training of correct duration for their experience and truck type and has passed all parts of the test at the end of it. This is the document that the authorities will want to see in the event of an accident or near miss reported under the RIDDOR regulation
The other point that requires some clarification is the subject of refresher training. Again there are no specific times laid down for refresher training although it is strongly recommended. The ACoP for fork lifts states that refresher training should be provided but leaves the employer to decide when that should be. As a general rule most employers would seek to arrange for refresher training somewhere between 3 and 5 years after the basic training. In the NORS scheme, registration lasts for a period of 3 years.
To summarise. In the event of an accident or investigation the authorities will ask to see the certificate of basic training. They will then possibly ask for proof of other training such as that designed for special attachments or unusual working conditions etc. They will also want to know about the course durations to see if they correspond with those laid down by the accrediting bodies. If they do not, it may be deemed that the training was insufficient and a prosecution might follow. If you are booking training with a company ask about this and get them to put it in writing if in doubt. (Be particularly aware of one day courses as these are only approved for refresher training for previously certificated operators).
The HSE would almost certainly want to know the length of time that had passed since the training was provided. If all is in order then it should prevent a prosecution for failing to provide training. Note that the maximum fine for an offence under section 2 of the act can be unlimited! Contrary to popular belief, people in a company can not be sent to jail under section 2 of the HSE Act except for some quite rare, specific offences.
One last thing. It is the EMPLOYER who has to give permission for an employee to operate fork lifts at the company and this should be in writing. Neither the instructor or the training company have the authority to do this in law.
If you think training is expensive. try having an accident!
