Employers are not required to repeat previous training of a new operator based on forklift regulations. Training nonetheless has to be supplemented in order to deal with particular workplace risks and specific workplace machines. For example, an operator doesn't need to be trained in order to navigate a lift truck on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; nevertheless, if the operator is really assigned to work somewhere which has a ramp, it is vital that extra training should be offered.
Trainees could operate a motorized industrial truck just when they are under the direct supervision of people who have the experience, knowledge and training to train operators and evaluate their skill operating the machine. The trainees could just learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other employees.
Making a practical evaluation in the workplace is also essential. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training occur at the jobsite, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
An operator is said to be certified once they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification should contain the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the training and assessment and finally the evaluation date. Even though certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Refresher training is vital to be completed every 3 years. It is also required any time an operator demonstrates some type of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training would be triggered by certain occurrences like: if a different kind of forklift 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 example, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules intentionally, it may be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is essential to practice lift truck awareness training for pedestrians and other staff working near forklifts so as to make certain that everybody stays safe.