Based on the forklift rules, an employer is not required to repeat previous training of a new operator. In order to address specific workplace risks and specific workplace equipment, training needs to be supplemented. For instance, 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 someplace which has a ramp, it is essential that additional training should be offered.
Trainees are just allowed to utilize forklifts under direct supervision of just those who have the necessary training and knowledge to train and assess the trainees competence on the lift truck. The trainees can just learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger other workers or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment within the workplace is also vital. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training occur at the jobsite, using 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 name of the operator, and the name of the person performing the assessment and training and lastly the evaluation date. Even though certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is essential. It can also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. For instance, refresher training would be triggered by certain occurrences like for example: if there is an accident or a near miss, if a different type of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
It has to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe use is noticed. Like for instance, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety regulations willfully, it could be essential to implement disciplinary action. And finally, even though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice forklift awareness training for other employees working near forklifts and pedestrians in order to ensure everyone stays safe.