Based on the forklift regulations, an employer is not required to replicate past training of a new operator. In order to address particular workplace risks and specific workplace machines, training has to be supplemented. Like for instance, an operator doesn't need to be trained in order to maneuver a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; nevertheless, if the operator is actually assigned to work someplace which has a ramp, it is essential that extra training must be provided.
Trainees could utilize a motorized industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of people who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their competence utilizing the machine. The trainees could just learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other workers.
Making a practical evaluation within the workplace is also essential. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise 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 qualified once they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification needs to contain the training date, the name of the operator, and the name of the individual performing the assessment and training and finally the evaluation date. Though 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 essential. It can also become mandatory to those operators who have demonstrated some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training will be triggered by some occurrences like for example: if a different kind of lift truck 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 needs 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 rules intentionally, it can be essential to implement disciplinary action. And finally, even 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 in order to ensure everyone would be safe.