Everything You Need to Know about Forklift Operator Training
Effectively training your forklift operators is the cornerstone of a productive, accident-free warehouse or material handling operation. It should be an ongoing process that continuously updates your drivers on the latest regulations, requirements, safety procedures, and equipment. In this article, we’re going to cover the key components of successful forklift operator training and the need for training.
- Why forklift training is so important
- OSHA forklift training requirements
- The key elements for successfully training your team
- How JIT Toyota-Lift can help
Why forklift training is so important
According to the National Safety Council, forklifts caused 67 deaths in 2023 and 24,960 non-fatal injuries in 2021-2022. OSHA reports that forklift accidents result in 75-95 deaths each and every year. The leading causes of those accidents are:
- Forklift rollovers or tip-overs
- Pedestrian collisions
- Falling loads
- Personnel falling from forks
- Emissions poisoning
All of these types of accidents are preventable and avoidable, which is why effective forklift operator training is so critical for a safe, successful, productive warehouse. Your drivers need to know how to keep these situations from occurring, what to do if they do occur, and how to recognize potentially dangerous workplace conditions.
OSHA forklift training requirements
OSHA requires that forklift certification classes include both classroom and hands-on lessons that cover general safe truck operation and training on the specific machines being operated. Drivers must also be taught about the workplace hazards that these machines can create, especially when used incorrectly. Classroom instruction is typically in the form of lecture or video content, while hands-on instruction involves live demonstrations and practical exercises. Operators must then be evaluated by the trainer with both a written and practical test.
OSHA forklift training requirements stipulate that employers have to ensure that every operator has received the training, and that they evaluate each operator at least once every three years. Before using a forklift for the first time, the employer also needs to assess the operator’s performance and confirm that they are competent enough to safely drive the machine in the workplace.
The key elements for successfully training your team
An effective forklift operator training program should both meet OSHA requirements and help your team be more successful on a daily basis. Here is an overview of what a typical training program should include:
- Safety procedures – Forklift operator training should start with the basics; how to conduct a daily walkaround inspection, proper load handling techniques to minimize the chances of a rollover or load spill, pedestrian awareness, and emergency protocols in the event of an accident.
- Operating techniques – Drivers need to familiarize themselves with the steering, lifting, and braking systems on the specific forklift that they’ll be operating. Training should also cover key concepts like understanding the machine’s center of gravity when carrying heavy loads, techniques for maneuvering in tight spaces, and how to handle uneven terrain.
- Anticipating hazards – Forklift certification classes need to emphasize recognizing dangerous situations. Operators must have training to anticipate and mitigate risks like obstructed pathways, overhead obstacles, surrounding employees, low visibility, slippery surfaces, and similar hazardous conditions.
- The chance to put lessons into practice – OSHA requires that forklift operator training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on lessons. It’s important that drivers have a chance to practice what they learn in simulated scenarios and challenges. That way, when they come across a real-life dangerous situation, they’ll have actual experience to fall back on so they can successfully navigate the situation.
How JIT Toyota-Lift can help
Forklift training and forklift certification classes require time and effort that a lot of operations can’t provide in-house. That’s why we offer both classroom and practical instruction at JIT. Your team can come to our forklift training center in Buffalo, or our trainers can come to you. Either way, we’ll provide you with everything required to meet OSHA requirements and ensure your operators are fully up to date on the latest equipment and safety procedures. The result will be a more productive operation and a much lower risk of workplace accidents, injuries, and damaged equipment.
If you’re interested in forklift operator training for your team, then contact JIT today!