Employers are not required to replicate previous training of a new operator based on lift truck rules. Training however needs to be supplemented so as to deal with particular workplace hazards and particular workplace equipment. Like for example, 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; then again, if the operator is actually assigned to work somewhere that has a ramp, it is necessary that additional training must be offered.
Trainees could use 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 assess their competence using the machinery. The trainees can only learn in a setting where such operation does not put in danger other workers or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment within the workplace is also vital. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training occur at the workplace, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
When an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification must contain the date of training, the name of the operator, and the name of the person performing the training and assessment and lastly the assessment date. Even though 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 necessary. It can also become mandatory to those operators who have shown some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck use. For instance, refresher training will be triggered by some occurrences including: if there is an accident or a near miss, if a different type of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
When unsafe use of a forklift is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. For instance, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety regulations, it could be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, 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 in order to make sure that everybody will be safe.