Very narrow aisles or simply VNA is a versatile type of truck for stacking and replenishing stocks. They’re ideal in the narrow aisle or confined space operation, as its name implies; they can also be used in high-level picking of orders.
An individual, who is used in the operation of other types of trucks, must have VNA training first before they can operate this truck because of its unique steering feature as it is sometimes a real challenge for anyone.
An employer has the obligation under the PUWER 1998 as well. This law requires employers to ensure their workers have received adequate training in such equipment for the purpose of health and safety in the workplace.
There’s only one purpose of VNA training, and that is to provide candidates with the theoretical knowledge and practical skill necessary to do the job efficiently and safely.
If you’re seeking this training, in this article, we will be providing you with the necessary information so that you can make a decision. Please read on…
Read this article: What are the Relevant HSE Forklift Truck Regulations
What is a VNA Certification?
Certification means that you’ve undergone the training by completing the theory lessons and practical exercises and have undergone performance assessment. The training will cover all the aspects of the operations and on completion of the VNA training, you will receive your nationally-recognized licence in this forklift category at the end of the course.
In some training providers, successful applicants will receive the completion of basic training and a photographic identification card as proof of certification. The widely popular ITSSAR training standards enable applicants’ names to be entered into the database or registry. The verification of credentials can be done by both candidates and employers in the database.
Types of VNA Courses and How Long Does It Take to Complete
Want to take a course but don’t know what’s suitable for you, well here are the courses you can choose depending on your skill level:
- Novice VNA course - suited for absolute individuals who have no prior experience in the operation of this type of truck. The training is more extensive and hence the participants in the novice course is just up to 3 individuals. Depending on the number of participants, the course can take up to 3-5 days to complete.
- Refresher Training Course – or simply refresher is ideal for individuals who have had a previous certificate and formal training in VNA truck who want to “refresh” their knowledge and be up-to-date to the current standards. The length of the program is usually 1 day.
- Existing Operator VNA Course – if you are a current VNA operator who has no formal training or certificate in the operation of this truck, the existing operator course is what you need to take. It takes 3 days to complete the existing operator course.
- Conversion VNC Course – have you had formal training on counterbalance forklifts or in other types of trucks and do you wish to train on VNA? If so, the conversion course is what you need to take. The length of the conversion course is typically 3 days to complete.
If you are an employer who is sending workers to a training school or someone who wants to take a VNA course, make sure that the training facility is actually using a VNA or tri-lateral machine because there are rumors that some schools use order pickers instead of real VNA in their training course.
At their core, VNA trucks are a type of forklift optimized for narrow aisles. They are designed with exceptional maneuverability, making them indispensable for warehouses where space optimization is a priority. By navigating aisles as narrow as 1.6 meters, these machines significantly increase the storage capacity of a facility. However, their compact design and enhanced capabilities demand a thorough understanding and specific operating skills - precisely where VNA truck training comes into play.
Read this article: When Will a Forklift Licence Issued in the UK Expire?
Components of VNA Truck Training
A well-rounded VNA truck training program usually encompasses theoretical instruction, hands-on practical training, a rigorous assessment phase, and, finally, the issuance of a certification upon successful completion.
A. Theoretical Training
During this initial phase, trainees familiarize themselves with the VNA truck's functionalities and the safety principles surrounding its operation. Topics typically include an introduction to the truck's controls, understanding of stability and capacity dynamics, and a thorough review of safety regulations.
B. Practical Training
Next comes the hands-on experience, where learners apply their theoretical knowledge. Practical training involves mastering various operational tasks such as performing pre-shift inspections, maneuvering the truck safely, efficiently picking up and placing loads, and operating the truck's lifting mechanism.
C. Assessment
After the training, the competence of trainees is evaluated through a two-fold assessment: a written test to assess theoretical knowledge and a practical test to evaluate hands-on proficiency. This stage is critical in affirming the operator's ability to use the VNA truck safely and effectively.
D. Certification
Upon successful assessment, trainees receive a certificate of competence. This certification, typically valid for 3-5 years, serves as proof of the operator's ability to handle a VNA truck safely, underscoring the importance of refresher courses to maintain these skills.
Read this article: RTITB Forklift Training – Why You Would Choose This?
Where Can You Take VNA Training Course
Forklift School
Unit 9, Osyth Close, Brackmills Industrial Estate, Northampton NN4 7DY
Unit 15, Rowleys Green Industrial Estate, Rowleys Green Lane, Longford, Coventry CV6 6AN
They also have training facility in Corby, Leicester, Luton, Milton Keynes
Phone: 0845 6800928
TL Training
Old Hall Road, Bromborough, Wirral, Merseyside, CH62 3NX
Phone: 0151 343 0588
HFT Forklifts Limited
Infinity House, Fir Tree Lane, Rotherwas, Hereford HR2 6LA
T +44(0)1432 277180
Mentor Training
Burley Close, Turnoaks Business Park, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S40 2UB
Phone: 01246 555222
Forklift School
Unit 9, Osyth Close, Brackmills Industrial Estate, Northampton NN4 7DY
Unit 15, Rowleys Green Industrial Estate, Rowleys Green Lane, Longford, Coventry CV6 6AN
They also have training facility in Corby, Leicester, Luton, Milton Keynes
Phone: 0845 6800928
South Coast Forklift Training
Cams Hall, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 8AB
Phone: 01329 729029
J & D Training Ltd
Unit 11 Old Forge Trading Estate, Dudley Road LyeDY9 8EL
Phone: 01384 895 448, 0121 339 5051, Mobile: 07508 020478
4KS Forklift Training
Unit 24, Bordesley Green Trading Estate, Birmingham, B8 1BZ
Phone: 0121 294 9395
Unit 4 Benedict Square, Peterborough PE4 6GD
Phone: 01733 575 343
Angus Lift Trucks
Units 10 – 12 Lime Kilns Way, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 3EL UK
Tel. 01455 616908
Unit 5 Crompton Road, Industrial Estate, Ilkeston, DE7 4BG UK
Tel. 0115 930 3665
Optimum Forklift Training Services
Forum House Business Centre
Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 7DN
Phone: 01243 282829
Academe Training Solutions
The BusinessLodge @ Trent House
234 Victoria Road, Fenton Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2LW
Phone: 03301242165
Health & Safety Training Ltd
Benton Square Industrial Estate, Unit 6 Wesley Way, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 9TA
Phone: +441916440332
CDR Training Ltd is based in Lichfield, Staffordshire
Can serve companies in East & West Midlands, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Shropshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire
Phone: 01543 411305
Kent Forklift Training
90 Maple Leaf, Manston Business Park Ramsgate, Kent CT12 5GD
Phone: 01843 603 199, Mobile: 07543 236 800
East Midlands Driver Training
Bakewell Road, Loughborough, LE115QY
Phone: 0808 164 4554
The VNA Training Can Be Done Onsite or at a Different Facility
Applicants can be trained either onsite or at the training provider’s facility. If to be done onsite, which is usually requested by the employer, this training gives applicants the chance to be trained on the VNA truck they’re familiar with and hence eliminating the confusion to relearn the operation.
In onsite training, the curriculum can be modified to address not only the equipment-specific issues but workplace-specific concerns as well.
Likewise, in onsite training, employers can save a lot as they do not have to send the workers away to different facility eliminating manpower downtime. If this is the method of training delivery you opt for, contact a training provider near you or have someone from the organization to arrange the training (usually given by an in-house trainer who has the knowledge). The onsite training is suitable for large organizations.
While, onsite training offers a lot of advantages and is suitable for employers, an unemployed individual who wishes to earn credentials in the operation of VNA truck can take the training at a training provider’s facility. Please see the above training providers for your reference. The duration of the training course will depend on the skill level of the individual as explained above.
How Much Does VNA Training Cost?
VNA (Very Narrow Aisle) truck training is an essential investment for businesses looking to maximize safety and efficiency in warehouse operations. However, the cost of such training can vary widely depending on several factors.
- Training Provider: Different training providers have different fee structures. Reputable, accredited providers often charge more due to the quality of their courses, experienced trainers, and comprehensive curricula.
- Training Location: The cost may also depend on where the training is taking place. On-site training at your business premises might be more expensive than attending a course at the training provider's facility due to additional travel and setup costs.
- Course Length and Content: The duration and depth of the course also influence the price. A longer, more detailed course covering both theoretical and practical aspects will likely be more costly than a shorter refresher course.
- Number of Participants: Often, the cost per trainee may decrease when a company arranges training for a larger group of employees at once, due to economies of scale.
- Certification Fees: Some providers may charge additional fees for final assessments and issuance of certification.
The cost of VNA truck training could range from 200-500 per participant, depending on the skill level of the trainee. However, prices may have changed since then due to inflation, changes in market conditions, or other factors. Therefore, it's important to get a current quote from potential training providers to get a precise idea of the cost.
Remember, while price is an important consideration, it should not be the only factor when choosing a VNA truck training provider. The quality of training, the provider's reputation, and their adherence to industry standards are also critical to ensuring your operators are effectively trained.
When Do You Need Refresher Training on VNA?
It is recommended to conduct refresher training every 3-5 years as workers tend to be complacent with their jobs and in the operation of VNA trucks.
It is advisable to keep or maintain records to track workers' training. Likewise, it is also suggested to supply training not because the time has lapsed but because to address workplace concerns and issues.
Let’s say for example if an operator almost struck a person, such an incident has to be reported. The involved person has to be given a refresher course to make him realize the mistake and to avoid repetition of such incidents in the future.
If there’s a frequent need for refresher training, it is advisable to designate someone from the organization to conduct it. That someone must be experienced and knowledgeable in the subject matter. An in-house safety officer, a team leader, or a supervisor perhaps can do the job.
Choosing the Right VNA Truck Training Provider
Accreditation and Reputation
Accreditation is a must-have for any training provider. It serves as proof that the provider adheres to industry standards and guidelines. Always ensure that the provider you're considering is recognized by relevant authorities or industry bodies in your region.
Reputation is equally important. Look for a training provider with positive reviews and testimonials. The experience of past trainees can give you valuable insights into the quality of training you can expect.
Comprehensive Curriculum
A good VNA truck training program should offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of VNA truck operation. This includes understanding the functionalities of the truck, safety regulations, pre-operation inspections, proper handling of loads, maneuvering in narrow spaces, and emergency procedures.
In addition, the program should prepare trainees for the final assessment, which often includes both a written test and a practical test. If the provider offers post-training support or refresher courses, it's an added bonus.
Experienced Instructors
The quality of instructors is a crucial factor. They should not only be knowledgeable about VNA trucks but should also have practical, hands-on experience. This ensures that they can provide real-world examples and tips, making the training more relevant and effective.
Facilities and Equipment
Training providers should have adequate facilities and the latest VNA trucks for practical training. Trainees should have the opportunity to practice on machines that they will be operating in real-life scenarios. The training environment should also mimic a typical warehouse setting as closely as possible for the most beneficial hands-on training.
Tailored Training Approach
Every individual learns differently, and the best training providers understand this. They should be able to adapt their training methods to cater to the unique needs and learning styles of their trainees. This might include offering one-on-one training, small group sessions, or even online learning options.
Understanding the VNA Truck
VNA trucks, a type of forklift, are designed for maneuvering in very narrow aisles typically in the range of 1.6 to 2 meters wide. These trucks are a space-saving marvel that allow warehouses to drastically increase their storage density by reducing aisle widths. This optimized use of space leads to increased storage capacity and overall operational efficiency.
VNA trucks come with either man-up or man-down designs. The man-up design elevates the operator to the level of the load, providing a clear line of sight for picking and placing items on high shelves. In contrast, the man-down design keeps the operator at the base of the machine during operations.
These trucks are equipped with precise control systems for exceptional maneuverability and safety. They also feature advanced lifting mechanisms and often use guidance systems, such as wire or rail, to ensure smooth and accurate travel within the aisle.
VNA Truck vs. Other Types of Forklifts
Compared to conventional forklifts, VNA trucks offer several unique advantages, primarily stemming from their ability to operate in tighter spaces. While standard forklifts require wider aisles for safe operation and turning, VNA trucks' design allows them to navigate narrow aisles with ease. This ability results in more efficient use of warehouse space, leading to higher storage density.
VNA trucks also differ from Reach Trucks, another popular type of warehouse forklift. While both are designed for indoor use and can reach high storage racks, VNA trucks can operate in even narrower aisles than Reach Trucks and typically offer higher lift heights.
Applications of VNA Trucks in Various Industries
Given their space-saving capabilities, VNA trucks find wide-ranging applications across numerous industries.
- Warehousing and Distribution: The most common use of VNA trucks is in warehouses and distribution centers, where space is at a premium. They are especially useful in high-bay warehouses with vertical storage racks.
- Retail: Large retail stores often use VNA trucks for stock management in their storage areas. The ability to access products efficiently and safely is crucial in these environments.
- Manufacturing: In manufacturing facilities, VNA trucks are used for handling raw materials and finished goods, especially in areas with limited space.
- Food and Beverage Industry: The food and beverage industry, particularly those using cold storage, often leverage VNA trucks to maximize their storage capacity.
Understanding the VNA truck's features, capabilities, and its differences from other forklift types can help businesses make an informed decision about their warehouse equipment. By employing VNA trucks where appropriate, industries can vastly improve their storage efficiency and operational productivity.
To Leave a Final Word
Before you think of putting your hands on a VNA truck, make sure you have the proper training and that your skills have been assessed. This truck is not an ordinary forklift, it has a unique feature that one may get confused about.
It only takes a couple of days to finish a VNA training and only costs you some amount but the benefits of having this credential under your belt are beneficial to advance your career.
We wish you good luck and drive safe!
