10 Forklift Operator Training Requirements
Are your forklift operators OSHA compliant? OSHA requires all workers who operate forklifts to complete a workplace safety training program. OSHA forklift training is one of the best ways to establish workplace safety training requirements. These requirements protect employees and help reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities that occur every year.
Our quick, cost-effective OSHA forklift training program is easy to get your workers their OSHA forklift certification requirements. Teams who are OSHA compliant are more confident and capable of improving their productivity.
OSHA FORKLIFT CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS PREPARATION
OSHA forklift certification requirements include completing a training program every three years. This applies to any worker who uses a forklift as part of their everyday duties. Since OSHA may change rules and regulations, it’s essential to stay updated. That way, your team will be ready for all OSHA field inspections.
After a forklift operator becomes OSHA-certified, refresher training may be required due to any of the following circumstances:
- Operator is not using a forklift safely.
- Operator was involved in a forklift accident or a near-miss.
- Operator receives a poor evaluation from their employer relating to improper use of a forklift.
- There have been changes in the type of forklift or type of work performed.
A comprehensive understanding of forklift driver training requirements is critical for all forklift operators, regardless of industry experience or skill level. If forklift operators receive the proper training, they may stop on-the-job accidents, injuries, and fatalities before they happen. It can also save you from being hit with costly fines from OSHA.
Unsafe forklift operation can cause fatalities related to any of the following issues:
- Falls
- Struck by an object
- Electrocution
- Caught in or between a forklift
If forklift operators receive workplace safety training, they will fulfill OSHA’s forklift driver training requirements. Forklift drivers that satisfy the OSHA forklift certification requirements can learn how to safely operate a forklift and protect coworkers and bystanders around these machines.
10 OSHA Forklift Certification Requirements You Need to Know
As an employer, you must get familiar with OSHA forklift certification requirements. That includes getting your forklift drivers up to speed. Here’s a look at 10 OSHA forklift certification requirements for businesses that employ forklift operators.
1. A forklift operator must be able to operate a forklift safely.
A forklift operator cannot use a forklift unless they demonstrate the ability to do so safely. Failure to operate a forklift correctly can lead to equipment-related injury and fatality. When workers complete our OSHA forklift training program, they’ll be able to recognize significant hazards and keep their work area safe.
2. Trainees can only operate forklifts under the direct supervision of employees who have received training.
A direct supervisor or coworker who previously underwent forklift safety training must watch a trainee when they use a forklift. The trainee has successfully passed the test and knows the requirements required to operate a forklift safely.
3. Trainees can only operate a forklift in a way and at a place that does not put other employees at risk.
Workers who are enrolled in a forklift safety training program should only use a forklift safely and at a location where it is safe to do so. Our OSHA forklift training program can be accessed from any device, anywhere.
4. Training must be comprehensive.
Forklift safety training must consist of formal instruction. Instruction includes lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video, and written material. Also, practical training as demonstrated by the trainee and led by the trainer, and an evaluation of the trainee’s performance. Our program consists of exercises and “must-know” safety information that help operators understand the OSHA forklift training requirements the first time.
5. Only trained and experienced personnel can train and evaluate trainees.
Forklift safety training must be conducted by trained and certified forklift operators. Because of our “real life” experience, our program includes everything needed to help the trainers conduct proper training.
6. Training to operate powered industrial trucks must emphasize forklift- and workplace-related topics.
In terms of forklift-related topics, training must emphasize the safe operation of forklifts, forklift controls, and similar subjects. Meanwhile, for workplace-related topics, training must emphasize surface conditions where a forklift will be used; the use of forklifts in narrow spaces, and similar subjects.
7. Forklift refresher training must be provided.
Forklift operators must receive refresher training to stay updated on forklift safety topics and regulations. Refresher training helps to keep the work area safe by reducing accidents. Also, refresher training is required if the operator has been assigned a different kind of lift truck.
8. Refresher training must be provided at least every three years.
An employer should monitor its forklift operators’ certification and ensure that it does not lapse. If the expiration date for a forklift operator’s certification is approaching, refresher training should be completed right away. We offer free lifetime renewals to help get your forklift operators up to speed.
9. An operator does not have to complete training in a topic they have already completed.
An employer should track a forklift operator’s certification to ensure the operator does not inadvertently complete duplicate training. We also offer 100% OSHA-compliant Aerial and Scissor lift certification. This program can also be completed in about an hour and is 100% online.
10. An operator who trains and passes evaluation must receive proof of their forklift certification.
Upon successful completion of a training program, a forklift operator should receive proof of certification that includes their name, the date the training took place, the date the evaluation took place, and the identity of the operator performing the training or evaluation. You can print the certification card upon completing the OSHA forklift certification requirements.
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS AND WORKPLACE SAFETY ISSUES
Are you dealing with workplace safety issues? Fortunately, proper training can significantly reduce accidents. Improper training can lead to falls, crushing accidents, and even amputations. The OHSA forklift training requirements outlined in our program can help prevent forklift accidents and injuries. It’s also a great way to avoid any fines imposed by OSHA.
SIGN UP FOR FORKLIFT CERTIFICATION TRAINING FROM FLC
ForkliftCertification.com offers an extensive training program that covers OSHA forklift certification requirements. When you choose our OSHA forklift training kit, you get free templates for life. You also get both English and Spanish versions, and you can have it on a flash drive for ease of use and reuse. Even better, your employees can get forklift certified in about one hour! Plus, ours is the only online trainer certification available. To learn more or to enroll your workers in our program, please contact us online or call us today at (888) 278-8896.