What You Can Expect from an OSHA Forklift Certification Training Class in Lancaster, SC

Do you own a business or work where employees need to operate a forklift? If so, you should be aware of the OSHA forklift certification requirements. If you are not, we are here for you.

Anyone who operates a forklift knows their focus must be on their task. They know when they do this, it means they’re staying safe as well. This is why OSHA forklift safety training classes are so important.

An OSHA forklift training class is needed to operate forklifts safely and efficiently. The proper training for forklift operations helps workers increase their efficiency and performance.

OSHA does not award forklift certifications, but the Powered Industrial Trucks standard (29 CFR 1910.178) by OSHA outlines the minimum standards required. Lancaster businesses must meet these standards when setting training requirements.

Who Needs a Forklift Certification?

To lessen any confusion, receiving a forklift certification is the same as getting a forklift license. The employer will inform OSHA that a forklift operator has the necessary certification training.

Training includes the risks and hazards associated with forklift operation. Also, forklift training programs are tailored to their specific workplace needs.

Certification provides education about potential risks and aids in preventing mishaps. It guarantees that you can use the forklift in a secure manner that complies with OSHA regulations.

Forklift certification helps to do more than reduce forklift accidents. It can also aid in finding maintenance concerns. Both of these aspects contribute to a decrease in accidents and property damage.

The OSHA Forklift Training Requirement Standards

Evaluating performance is not determined by a written test alone. Employees in Lancaster, SC need to operate the forklift they will be using at their place of employment for the evaluation.

Most employers choose to follow OSHA 1910.178. They use both written tests and hands-on testing.

In 1910.178 (I), OSHA specifies the requirements for employee forklift certification. Employers must develop and carry out a forklift operator training program.

It must have its bases on the rules from OSHA. According to OSHA, the forklift training program must contain the following:

 - Basic guidelines for forklift operating safety

 - The kind of vehicles used (including forklifts and other types)

 - Risks associated with forklift use in the workplace

 - The OSHA PIT/forklift standard general safety criteria

It is the responsibility of the employer to provide OSHA training certification. It is also their responsibility to stay on top of all OSHA requirements that employees must follow.

Operator Assessment and Demonstration

The employer must assess operator performance. This step must happen before allowing the worker to operate a forklift or other PIT at work. The employee must show they can safely operate a forklift for certification as a forklift operator.

Forklift-Related Training Topics

In 29 CFR 1910.178(l)(3)(i), an employer must cover "truck-related issues" in the certification program they offer. The following are some forklift-related training subjects:

 - Operation guidelines, cautions, and safety measures for the specific kinds of forklifts used

 - The distinctions between a forklift and other vehicles

 - Information on the location, function, and operation of forklift controls and instruments

 - Motor/engine operation

 - Maneuvering/steering the forklift

 - Visibility, as well as limitations brought on by loading

 - Constraints, operation, and use of fork and attachment

 - Loading capacity and stability of the forklift

 - Vehicle maintenance and inspection tasks the employee must carry out

 - Charging and/or recharging batteries and refueling

 - Limitations when operating a forklift

 - Workplace-Related Topics

OSHA specifies in 29 CFR 1910.178(l)(3)(ii) that various topics relating to the workplace in Lancaster should be in all forklift operator training. The training must include the following subjects:

 - Driving environment (slickness, unevenness, impediments, floor load restrictions, and overhead clearance)

 - What makes up the loads transported

 - Load balance and stability

 - Handling, manipulating, stacking, and unstacking loads

 - Pedestrian traffic in the areas of operation of a forklift

 - Using a forklift in narrow aisles and other constrained areas

 - Restricted areas where the forklift may operate

 - Training for both empty (forks downgrade) and loaded (forks upgrade) forklifts

 - Enclosed areas where a buildup of diesel exhaust or carbon monoxide could occur due to inadequate airflow

 - Unusual or harmful workplace environmental factors that might impair safe operation

An employee may have received previous training before beginning their forklift operator certification. If the instruction fits the type of vehicle the employee will operate, and the conditions they may encounter, there is no need for extra training.

Trainee Operation of a Forklift

Employees working on their forklift certification may operate a forklift while under supervision. It must be by someone who has experience teaching and assessing employees' skills. They must also use a forklift when using it poses no risk to the trainee or other workers.

OSHA Forklift Training Certification in Lancaster SC

According to 29 CFR 1910.178(l)(6), the employer has the responsibility to offer forklift training certification to their workers in Lancaster. Employees that have completed the program are considered competent, qualified forklift operators.

The certification must include the operator's name, training date, and evaluation date. It must also include the name of the individual performing the training/evaluation. Keep in mind that without following these requirements, an employee's OSHA certification is incomplete.

Corrective Refresher Training

There is a three-year end date for forklift operator qualification. In most cases, an individual doesn't need to take extra forklift training during those three years.

However, refresher training is needed if a forklift operator shows a weakness in the safe operation of the forklift. A refresher course is necessary when:

 - The operator has operated the vehicle in a risky manner

 - The operator experienced an accident or a close call

 - An evaluation shows that the operator is not driving safely

How Do You Receive Forklift Certification in Lancaster? 

The responsibility of training and evaluation of forklift certification falls to the employer in Lancaster. Training needs a teaching component, a practical component, and almost always a written test. If not, you risk accidents, litigation, and OSHA fines.

Do you want to add a forklift certification to your resume? Are you in charge of OSHA compliance for your company?

Our course walks you through each step of your certification process. We instruct you on how to have a safe and effective forklift operation.

Check out our training course. Also, contact us to answer any questions about awarding or receiving certification.