From Forklifts to Cranes: AA Coombes Raise the Bar on Training

Ethan masters his forklift skills while the team sharpen crane lifting and signaller techniques.

TL;DR – 5 Key Points

• September 2025 saw Wight Training Services back at AA Coombes in Bembridge.
• Ethan successfully passed his B1 Counterbalance Forklift course.
• The lads completed slinger/signaller training, covering crane lifting safety.
• Practical, on-site training meant real skills in their own workplace.
• Builds on a previous forklift training session held at the yard in June.

September at the Boatyard

After a great training session in June, Wight Training Services was invited back to AA Coombes’ Bembridge yard in September 2025. This time it was Ethan’s turn on the forklift, and he absolutely nailed it – passing his B1 Counterbalance course with confidence.

The B1 category covers counterbalance forklifts up to 5 tonnes, making it the perfect fit for boatyard logistics where moving parts, equipment and materials safely is a daily task.

But it wasn’t just about forklifts this visit. The whole team got hands-on with some slinger/signaller training, learning the ropes of safe crane operations.

The Importance of Slinger/Signaller Training

When a crane is at work, the slinger/signaller is the eyes and ears on the ground. This training gives staff the skills to:

• Correctly attach and secure loads with the right equipment.
• Use clear, recognised signals to guide crane operators safely.
• Work as a team, keeping communication smooth and hazards to a minimum.
• Plan lifts carefully, considering stability, balance and the working environment.

For a boatyard like AA Coombes, where precision lifting is part of the job, this training ensures both safety and efficiency.

Building on June’s Success

In June, Bill and Hadleigh had focused on experienced forklift training, polishing up their B1 skills with their own truck on-site. Coming back just a few months later, it was great to see Ethan follow in their footsteps and the wider crew expand their knowledge with crane safety training.

It’s a testament to AA Coombes’ commitment to keeping standards high – whether it’s forklifts, cranes, or everyday health and safety.

👉 You can read about our June visit to AA Coombes here

Why On-Site Works Best

The lads were able to learn using their own forklift and crane, in the real environment where those skills are applied daily. It’s practical, relevant and cost-effective – no wasted time travelling, just straight into learning that makes a difference from day one.

Tim’s Take

“As an instructor, it’s brilliant to see the lads at AA Coombes putting so much into their training. Ethan did a great job on his forklift course – calm, steady and in control – and the team really took to the slinger/signaller work with the crane.

They’re a skilled crew already, but investing in this kind of training keeps everything sharp, safe and professional.”

– Tim Benton, Wight Training Services