According to the lift truck rules, an employer is not required to repeat past training of a new operator. To be able to deal with particular workplace hazards and particular workplace machines, training needs to be supplemented. For example, an operator doesn't have to be trained to navigate a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not have a ramp; then again, if the operator is actually assigned to work somewhere which has a ramp, it is necessary that additional training should be provided.
Trainees could use a powered industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the skill, knowledge and training to train operators and evaluate their competence operating the equipment. The trainees can only learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other employees.
Making a practical assessment within the workplace is also necessary. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the workplace, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as accurate as possible.
Once an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification needs to contain the date of training, the name of the operator, and the name of the individual performing the training and evaluation and finally the evaluation date. Even if certain state OSHA bodies need the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Refresher training is vital to be completed every 3 years. It is also needed any time an operator demonstrates some kind of deficiency in safe lift truck operation. Like for instance, refresher training will be triggered by certain occurrences like: if there is an accident or a near miss, if a different type of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if a supervisor observes operating unsafely and if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation.
It needs to be noted that refresher training is not always the solution when unsafe use is noticed. For example, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules willfully, it might be required to implement disciplinary action. And lastly, even if training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is vital to practice lift truck awareness training for pedestrians and other staff working near forklifts in order to ensure everyone stays safe.