Employers are not required to repeat past training of a new operator based on forklift rules. Training however has to be supplemented in order to deal with specific workplace hazards and particular workplace machinery. For example, an operator doesn't need to be trained in order to maneuver a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; then again, if the operator is really assigned to work someplace that has a ramp, it is vital that additional training should be provided.
Trainees may use a powered industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the experience, knowledge and training to train operators and assess their skill using the machinery. The trainees could only learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other employees.
Making a practical assessment in the workplace is also necessary. 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 qualified when they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification needs to contain the training date, the operator name, and the name of the individual performing the training and evaluation and lastly the assessment date. Even if 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 could also become mandatory to those operators who have demonstrated some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. Like for instance, refresher training will be triggered by certain instances including: if there is a near miss or an accident, if a different kind of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, 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 use is noticed. Like for instance, if an operator is intentionally disobeying workplace safety regulations, it could be essential to implement disciplinary action. And finally, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice forklift awareness training for pedestrians and other employees working in the vicinity of forklifts so as to make certain that everyone will be safe.