Learn everything you need to know to safely operate an M1 Multidirectional Forklift. Our M1 training courses, delivered by experienced and accredited instructors, are designed to equip you and your team with the skills and confidence to handle this specialist category of rider-operated counterbalance forklift one that can travel in four directions rather than two.
Whether you are new to M1 trucks or an experienced operator needing a refresher, HL Training has a course for you. To further expand your knowledge and skillset, take a look at our full range of forklift operator training.
The M1 is the ABA category for the rider-operated multidirectional counterbalance forklift, a specialist machine that combines the lifting capability of a standard counterbalance forklift with the ability to travel sideways. Where a standard B category counterbalance can only travel forwards and backwards, the M1 can travel in four directions, making it far more versatile in environments where space is tight or loads are long and awkward to manoeuvre.
The M1 is most commonly found in manufacturing, construction, and heavy warehousing environments where bulky or oversized loads need to be moved through confined spaces or loaded onto vehicles without the room for a standard counterbalance to turn. Its multidirectional capability makes it one of the most flexible forklifts available.
| Type | 3:1 | 2:1 | 1:1 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOV | EXP | REF | NOV | EXP | REF | NOV | EXP | REF | |
| AITT | 37.5h | 22.5h | 7.5h | 30h | 18.75h | 7.5h | 22.5h | 15h | 3.75h |
| ITSSAR | 37.5h | 22.5h | 7.5h | 30h | 15h | 6.25h | 22.5h | 11.25h | 5h |
| RTITB | 42.5h | 23h | 8.5h | 33h | 19.5h | 7.25h | 25h | 15h | 5.5h |
The M1 is part of the ABA’s M group — a dedicated set of categories for multidirectional trucks. Each M category covers a different machine type, and all require separate accredited training. The full range of multidirectional categories our courses cover includes:
The M1 requires its own dedicated qualification because its multidirectional capability makes it significantly different to operate safely compared to a standard B category counterbalance forklift. Operators already holding a B category licence will find the transition logical, but formal M1 training is a legal requirement before operating the truck.
Like all of our courses, the M1 training is in-depth to provide you with the necessary expertise and competence to safely and efficiently operate an M1 multidirectional forklift. This course includes (but is not limited to):
Candidates, a suitable training and test room, and an appropriate M1 multidirectional forklift must be available for the entire course duration.
All candidates are expected to be willing to learn all aspects of the training course, including taking part in the pre-check, theoretical, and practical tests required to receive their accredited M1 certificate.
Our M1 training courses can be tailored to the specific truck your operators use and made job-specific. Once training has concluded, candidates will have the skills and knowledge needed to safely control and handle an M1 multidirectional forklift in their own work environment.
At HL Training, we appreciate that each trainee will have different levels of experience operating an M1 multidirectional forklift. This is why we offer three course types that can be tailored to meet your individual needs.
All course timings are based on a 3:1 candidates to instructor ratio.
Novice Operator: An individual with little or no experience operating an M1 or multidirectional forklift. The course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 5 days.
Experienced Operator: An individual with relevant experience operating a standard counterbalance forklift but no formal M1 training. This course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 3 days. Further training may be recommended if candidates do not reach the required standard.
Refresher Operator: For operators who have held their M1 certificate for over 3 years and require a knowledge and skill refresher. This course accepts up to 3 candidates at a time and runs for 1 day.
It is a legal requirement to have received adequate training before operating an M1 multidirectional forklift. All operators must have the knowledge and practical skillset to handle the truck safely. There are many benefits to completing an accredited M1 course:
At HL Training, we combine thorough curriculums with the best training methods from certified instructors. When you join an M1 training course, you will experience the very highest levels of training to equip you to safely and effectively operate a multidirectional forklift.
We deliver in-house accredited training at our site in Bristol or off-site training, enabling you to complete your course in the comfort of your workplace with your own M1 truck. Whether you are brand new to multidirectional forklifts or an experienced counterbalance operator making the step up, we have the perfect course for you.
Become an accredited M1 operator:
Contact us today to find out more about our M1 training course.