Employers are not required to repeat previous training of a new operator based on forklift regulations. Training nevertheless needs to be supplemented in order to deal with particular 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 work place does not contain a ramp; nevertheless, if the operator is really assigned to work someplace that has a ramp, it is essential that additional training must be provided.
Trainees may utilize 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 competence using the machine. The trainees can just learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger other employees or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment within the workplace is also essential. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the workplace, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
Once an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification must contain the training date, the name of the operator, and the name of the person performing the training and evaluation and finally the date of assessment. Even though some state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is required. It could also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck use. Like for example, refresher training will be triggered by certain instances including: if a different kind of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if there is a near miss or an accident, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe use of a forklift is noticed, it must be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for instance, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety rules, it might be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice forklift awareness training for pedestrians and other employees working in the vicinity of forklifts in order to ensure everybody stays safe.