Employers are not required to replicate past training of a new operator based on lift truck rules. Training nonetheless has to be supplemented in order to deal with specific workplace hazards and specific workplace machinery. Like for example, an operator doesn't have to be trained to maneuver a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; nonetheless, if the operator is actually assigned to work someplace that has a ramp, it is vital that extra training must be offered.
Trainees may use a powered industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, training and knowledge to train operators and assess their competence using the equipment. The trainees could only learn in a setting where such operation does not put in danger other employees or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment in the workplace is also essential. 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.
When an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification must include the date of training, the name of the operator, and the name of the person performing the evaluation and training and finally the date of evaluation. Though some state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is necessary. It could also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck use. Like for instance, refresher training will be triggered by some occurrences like for example: if a different type of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if there is a near miss or an accident, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
It has to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe operation is noticed. Like for instance, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules willfully, it might be essential to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, even if 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 everyone will be safe.