According to the lift truck rules, an employer is not required to repeat previous training of a new operator. To be able to address specific workplace risks and specific workplace machinery, training has to be supplemented. Like for example, an operator doesn't have to be trained in order to steer a lift truck on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; nevertheless, if the operator is actually assigned to work somewhere which has a ramp, it is necessary that extra training should be provided.
Trainees can utilize a motorized 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 competence using the machine. The trainees can only learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger other workers or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment within the workplace is also essential. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training happen at the jobsite, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate 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 operator name, the training date, and the name of the person performing the training and assessment and finally the evaluation date. Even though some 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 type of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For instance, refresher training would be triggered by certain instances like: if a different type of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if there is a near miss or an accident, 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 should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for example, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety regulations, it may be essential to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is essential to practice forklift awareness training for other staff working near forklifts and pedestrians in order to ensure everyone will be safe.