Employers are not required to repeat previous training of a new operator according to lift truck regulations. Training nevertheless has to be supplemented so as to deal with specific workplace risks and specific workplace equipment. Like for example, an operator doesn't need to be trained to navigate a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; then again, if the operator is really assigned to work somewhere that has a ramp, it is necessary that extra training must be provided.
Trainees are just allowed to operate lift trucks under direct supervision of only individuals who have the necessary training and knowledge to train and assess the trainees skill on the lift truck. The trainees could just learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other employees.
Making a practical evaluation in the workplace is also vital. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training happen at the jobsite, 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 operator name, and the name of the individual performing the training and evaluation and lastly the date of assessment. Even though certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Refresher training is necessary to be completed every 3 years. It is also needed any time an operator demonstrates some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck use. Like for example, refresher training will be triggered by some occurrences like for instance: if a different type of forklift is introduced to the workplace, if there is a near miss or an accident, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
When unsafe use of a lift truck is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. For instance, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety regulations intentionally, it can be necessary to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is essential to practice lift truck awareness training for pedestrians and other employees working near forklifts so as to ensure everyone stays safe.