Based on the forklift rules, an employer is not required to repeat past training of a new operator. To be able to deal with particular workplace risks and specific workplace equipment, training needs to be supplemented. Like for instance, an operator doesn't have to be trained to be able to navigate a lift truck on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; then again, if the operator is actually assigned to work someplace that has a ramp, it is vital that extra training has to be provided.
Trainees may utilize a motorized industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and evaluate their competence using the machine. The trainees could only learn in an environment where such operation does not put in danger other workers or the trainee themselves.
It is vital to make a practical assessment within the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the jobsite, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
An operator is said to be qualified 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 evaluation and training and lastly the evaluation date. Even if some state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Refresher training is required to be completed every 3 years. It is also required any time an operator demonstrates some type of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training will be triggered by some instances like for example: if there is a near miss or an accident, if a different type of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe operation of a lift truck is noticed, it must be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for example, if an operator is willfully disobeying workplace safety regulations, it might be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is vital to practice forklift awareness training for pedestrians and other staff working near forklifts in order to ensure everyone stays safe.