Forklift Training

On December 1, 1998, the new OSHA requirements for training operators of forklift and other industrial trucks became law!  The final “Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training” [29 CFR 1910.178(1)] rule revises the existing requirements and issues new mandates to improve training and reduce workplace injuries and fatalities.  The changes are expected to affect approximately 1.5 million workers who operate such equipment in general industry, construction, shipyards, marine terminals, and long shoring operations.

The standard formerly stated “Only trained and authorized operators shall be permitted to operate powered industrial truck.  Methods shall be devised to train operators in the safe operation of powered industrial trucks.”  OSHA now requires that operators of powered industrial trucks be trained in the operation of such vehicles before they are allowed to operate them independently.  The training must consist of instruction (both classroom and practical) in proper vehicle operation, the hazards of operating the vehicle in the workplace, and the requirements of the OSHA standard for powered industrial trucks.

SPECIFIC TOPICS THAT MUST BE COVERED IN THE TRAINING INCLUDE:
How powered industrial trucks are similar and different from cars
Load capacity Operation, maintenance and inspection Pedestrian traffic Surface  conditions Load manipulation, stacking and un-stacking Safety hazards Downhill angles.

REFRESHER TRAINING IS REQUIRED IF: Operator is involved in an accident or near miss incident Operator has been observed operating vehicle in an unsafe manner Operator has been determined during an evaluation to need additional training There are changes in the workplace that could affect safe operation of the truck; Operator assigned to operate a different type of truck

Operators who have completed training must be evaluated while they operate the vehicle in the workplace.  Operators must also be periodically evaluated (at least once every three years) to ensure that their skills remain intact and must receive refresher training whenever there is a demonstrated need for it.