According to the forklift rules, an employer is not required to repeat past training of a new operator. In order to address particular workplace risks and particular workplace equipment, training has to be supplemented. Like for instance, an operator doesn't need to be trained to steer a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; nonetheless, if the operator is actually assigned to work someplace which has a ramp, it is necessary that additional training needs to be provided.
Trainees could use a powered industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the experience, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their skill operating the machine. The trainees could just 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 in the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training occur at the jobsite, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
Once an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be qualified. The certification needs to include the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the training and assessment and finally the evaluation date. Though certain 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 shown some type of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances including: if a different kind of forklift 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.
It has to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe operation is noticed. For instance, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety regulations willfully, it could be essential to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is essential to practice forklift awareness training for pedestrians and other staff working in the vicinity of forklifts so as to ensure everybody stays safe.