Based on the forklift rules, an employer is not required to replicate previous training of a new operator. In order to deal with certain workplace risks and specific workplace machines, training has to be supplemented. For instance, an operator doesn't need to be trained to navigate a lift truck on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; nonetheless, if the operator is really assigned to work somewhere that has a ramp, it is vital that extra training should be offered.
Trainees can utilize a powered industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, training and knowledge to train operators and evaluate their competence using the machine. The trainees could just learn in an environment where such operation does not put in danger other workers or the trainee themselves.
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 occur at the workplace, 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 should include the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the training and assessment and lastly the date of assessment. Though some state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Every three years, refresher training is required. It could also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training will be triggered by certain instances including: if there is an accident or a near miss, if a different kind of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
When unsafe use of a lift truck is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. For instance, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules willfully, it can be required to implement disciplinary action. And finally, even though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is vital to practice lift truck awareness training for other employees working in the vicinity of forklifts and pedestrians so as to ensure everyone will be safe.