Employers are not required to replicate past training of a new operator according to forklift regulations. Training nonetheless has to be supplemented in order to address particular workplace risks and particular workplace machinery. Like for instance, an operator doesn't have to be trained to navigate a forklift on a ramp if that place of work does not have a ramp; then again, if the operator is really assigned to work someplace which has a ramp, it is essential that additional training must be provided.
Trainees can operate a motorized industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their skill utilizing the machinery. The trainees could only learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other workers.
Making a practical evaluation in the workplace is also vital. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the jobsite, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
An operator is said to be certified when they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification needs to contain the name of the operator, the date of training, and the name of the individual performing the evaluation and training and lastly the date of assessment. Even if certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is essential. It can also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances including: if a different type of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if there is an accident or a near miss, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
It has to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe operation is noticed. For instance, if an operator is willfully disobeying workplace safety rules, it can be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And finally, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is essential to practice lift truck awareness training for other staff working near forklifts and pedestrians in order to ensure everybody will be safe.