Employers are not required to replicate previous training of a new operator according to forklift rules. Training nonetheless needs to be supplemented so as to deal with particular workplace risks and specific workplace machinery. For example, an operator doesn't have to be trained to steer a lift truck on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; nonetheless, if the operator is actually assigned to work somewhere which has a ramp, it is necessary that additional training must be provided.
Trainees may use a motorized 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 can just learn in an environment where such operation does not put in danger other workers or the trainee themselves.
It is necessary to make a practical evaluation within the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training occur at the workplace, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
Once an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification has to contain the operator name, the date of training, and the name of the person performing the training and evaluation 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.
Refresher training is necessary to be completed every 3 years. It is also needed any time an operator demonstrates some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck use. Like for example, refresher training will be triggered by certain instances including: if a different kind of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if there is an accident or a near miss, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
When unsafe operation of a forklift is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. For instance, if an operator is intentionally disobeying workplace safety rules, it could be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, even if 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 make certain that everybody would be safe.