Employers are not required to replicate past training of a new operator based on forklift rules. Training nonetheless needs to be supplemented so as to address certain workplace risks and particular workplace equipment. Like for example, an operator doesn't have to be trained 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 somewhere that has a ramp, it is necessary that additional training has to be offered.
Trainees can operate 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 operating the machine. The trainees can just learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other employees.
It is vital to make a practical assessment within the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training happen at the jobsite, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
An operator is said to be certified when they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification must include the date of training, the operator name, and the name of the person performing the training and assessment and finally the date of evaluation. Though certain state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Every three years, refresher training is necessary. It can also become mandatory to those operators who have demonstrated some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances including: if a different type of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if there is an accident or a near miss, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
It needs to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe operation is noticed. For example, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety regulations, it can be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, even though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice lift truck awareness training for other employees working in the vicinity of forklifts and pedestrians so as to ensure everybody will be safe.