Employers are not required to repeat previous training of a new operator based on lift truck regulations. Training nonetheless needs to be supplemented in order to deal with specific workplace risks and specific workplace equipment. Like for instance, an operator doesn't need to be trained in order to steer a forklift on a ramp if that place of work does not contain a ramp; however, if the operator is really assigned to work someplace that has a ramp, it is vital that extra training should be offered.
Trainees could operate a powered industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their competence using the machine. The trainees can only learn in a setting where such operation does not put in danger other workers or the trainee themselves.
It is essential to make a practical evaluation within the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the workplace, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
An operator is said to be qualified when they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification should contain the date of training, the name of the operator, and the name of the individual performing the training and assessment and lastly the date of assessment. Even if some state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Every three years, refresher training is necessary. It could also become mandatory to those operators who have demonstrated some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck use. Like for instance, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances including: if there is a near miss or an accident, if a different type of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe operation of a forklift is noticed, it must be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. For example, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety rules, it can be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is vital to practice lift truck awareness training for pedestrians and other employees working near forklifts so as to make sure that everyone stays safe.