By A forklift is a piece of industrial equipment that allows workers to lift heavy loads safely. These vehicles are used in many types of work, including manufacturing, warehouse operations and transportation. Because the machines can be dangerous if improperly used, employees must receive training before operating one. The forklift safety program must be approved by the employer before an employee can operate a forklift. The forklift certification process includes a written exam and practical training. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the national requirements for forklift certification. Individual states may have additional workplace safety rules set by their regulatory bodies.
Forklift training must be conducted by a person with the proper knowledge and experience. This person can be the employer, another worker or a trainer hired by the company. Trainers must be familiar with all the aspects of the forklift operation, such as pre-use inspection, load management and maneuvering. They must also be capable of evaluating an operator’s competence. The training and evaluation must be documented. The documentation should include the date of training, the date of the evaluation and the name of the person or people who provided the training and evaluation.
Do Different Types of Forklifts Require Separate Training?
The forklift training that is required by OSHA must be specific to the type of machine and the working conditions. However, there are some courses that are all-encompassing and allow the operator to operate different classes of forklifts, such as a reach truck, order picker or counterbalance forklift. These courses can be completed online or in person at a trade school.
What Happens If I Fail the Forklift Test?
You can fail the forklift test by answering too many questions incorrectly or by scoring below the minimum passing score. If you take the test online, you can usually retake the exam as many times as needed until you pass it. If you take the test in person, you can discuss any questions or problems with the instructor and receive additional instruction to help you pass the exam. If you fail the hands-on exam, your trainer can work with you to practice the necessary skills until you are ready to retake the hands-on exam.
How Can I Get Forklift Training for My Staff?
There are many forklift training companies. Many offer both online and in-person courses, which vary in price. When choosing a forklift training provider, make sure they are a member of a professional organization and that their programs meet the OSHA requirements. You should also ask other businesses for recommendations.
If you have questions about forklift certification, you can contact your state OSHA office or a workplace safety organization. The agency can provide information on the training and testing requirements in your area. You can also search online for a list of certified forklift trainers in your state. Using a professional trainer can reduce the time it takes to train an employee and improve the quality of your forklift operators.
