Based on the lift truck rules, an employer is not required to replicate past training of a new operator. To be able to address specific workplace risks and particular workplace machines, training has to be supplemented. Like for instance, an operator doesn't have to be trained to be able to navigate a forklift on a ramp if that place of work does not contain a ramp; however, if the operator is really assigned to work someplace which has a ramp, it is vital that extra training has to be provided.
Trainees could use a motorized industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of people who have the experience, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their skill utilizing the machinery. The trainees could only learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger other workers or the trainee themselves.
It is vital 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 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 must contain the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the assessment and training and lastly the date of evaluation. Even though some state OSHA bodies need 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 shows some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck use. Like for instance, refresher training will be triggered by some instances like: if a different type of lift truck 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.
It needs to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe use is noticed. Like for example, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules willfully, it could be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, even if 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 make certain that everybody stays safe.