According to the forklift rules, an employer is not required to repeat previous training of a new operator. In order to deal with certain workplace hazards and specific workplace machinery, training has to be supplemented. Like for example, an operator doesn't need to be trained to maneuver a forklift on a ramp if that place of work does not have a ramp; then again, if the operator is actually assigned to work someplace which has a ramp, it is essential that extra training must be offered.
Trainees can operate a motorized industrial truck only when they are under the direct supervision of individuals who have the experience, training and knowledge to train operators and evaluate their skill using the machinery. The trainees could only learn in an environment where such operation does not endanger other employees or the trainee themselves.
Making a practical assessment in the workplace is also essential. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is better to have the training happen at the jobsite, using lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
Once an operator has successfully passed training with records maintained by the employer, they are said to be certified. The certification must contain the name of the operator, the training date, and the name of the individual performing the evaluation and training and lastly the assessment date. Though certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not need it.
Refresher training is required to be completed every 3 years. It is also needed any time an operator demonstrates some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For example, refresher training will be triggered by certain instances like: if a different kind of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if there is an accident or a near miss, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe use of a lift truck is noticed, it must be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for example, if an operator is disobeying workplace safety rules intentionally, it could be required to implement disciplinary action. And last but not least, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is vital to practice forklift awareness training for other employees working in the vicinity of forklifts and pedestrians so as to make certain that everybody will be safe.