Where can an operator obtain
the OSHA forklift training required to become a certified
forklift operator?
The employer is responsible for implementing
an OSHA forklift training program and ensuring that only
trained drivers who have successfully completed
the OSHA forklift training program are allowed to operate
powered industrial trucks. An evaluation
of each trained operator must be conducted
during the initial OSHA forklift training, at least once
every three years, and after refresher OSHA forklift training.
The OSHA forklift training and evaluation may be conducted
by the employer, if qualified, or an outside
training organization.
What type of OSHA forklift training is required?
The OSHA forklift training must be a combination of formal
(lecture, video, etc.) and practical (demonstration
and practical exercises), and include an
evaluation of operator performance in the
workplace. Truck-related and workplace-related
topics must be included, along with the
requirements of the OSHA standard. The specific
OSHA forklift training topics are listed in the standard.
Who should conduct the OSHA forklift training?
All OSHA forklift training and evaluation must be conducted
by a person with the necessary knowledge,
training and experience to train operators
and evaluate their competency. This may
be the employer, another employee, or other
qualified person. The OSHA forklift training and evaluation
does not have to be conducted by a single
individual, but can be done by several persons,
provided each one is qualified.
Is refresher OSHA forklift training required?
Refresher OSHA forklift training is required when the
operator has been observed driving unsafely,
been involved in an accident or near-miss,
received an evaluation that indicates unsafe
operation, is assigned to drive a different
type truck, or if a workplace condition
affecting safe operation changes. An operator
evaluation is required after refresher OSHA forklift training.
