Operating a forklift can be a dangerous task. About 85 operators lose their life every year in their workplace. Having a driver’s license doesn’t mean that an employee can drive a forklift in the worksite without any problems. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has training requirements for all operators who use a forklift. OSHA as per standard CFR 29 1910.178 (i) requires that “training shall consist of a combination of formal instruction (e.g., lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video tape, written material), practical training (demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee), and evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace”. The objective of the training is to make sure the forklift operator is able to safely do his or her job.

Do forklift operators need a valid driver’s license?
OSHA does not require that forklift operators have a valid driver’s license.

Who can train me?

OSHA requires that training be done under the direct supervision of instructors who have the knowledge, training, and experience to train operators and evaluate their competence. Consequently, you will need to be trained by an “expert” at your site who has experience with forklifts.

What do we offer?

Forklift Operator Training is a comprehensive 4-hour course. It consists of both formal instruction and hands-on training. The course ends with an individual evaluation of each participant’s skill and knowledge.

Our experienced instructors will first lecture on OSHA regulations and requirements. They will provide information on common forklift accidents, as well as operation and traveling practices. Here, participants will learn about forklift maintenance, stability and precautions. Part of the formal classroom training will include discussing and analyzing videos of forklift accidents.

Participants will also be able to learn through hands-on training. They will observe a demonstration. Next, they practice safely operating a forklift through practical exercises. The instructor will then evaluate the trainee’s performance.

What will I get after I complete the training?

Participants receive a wallet size completion card at the end of the Forklift Operator Training course.

When is forklift refresher training required?

Refresher training is required at least every three years, or when an operator drives unsafely, or is involved in an accident or near miss, or when there is a change in workplace conditions, or different/new type of forklift.