The importance of proper forklift training

Forklift safety, forklift training, and
forklift certification are important topics that need to be on the mind of anyone working with or around forklifts.

One of the first aspects of forklift safety is simply realizing what a forklift actually is...heavy machinery. All heavy machinery should only be operated after proper training has been completed. Seems like common sense, yet all across the United States forklifts are being operated by drivers with no formal training.

The number one reason for forklift training is safety.

OSHA reports there are over 90,000 forklift related accidents each year resulting in around 100 deaths. 70-90% of those accidents are due to operator error!

The second most important reason for training...IT'S THE LAW!!

The main two governing bodies for powered industrial trucks are OSHA and NIOSH. OSHA law states "The employer shall certify that each operator has been trained and evaluated..." Fines for not doing so can be up to $7,000 per operator! Refresher training should be conducted at least every 3 years.

Other reasons for forklift training include(but not limited to) Less product damage, reduced worker's compensation rates, lower forklift maintenance cost, and increased production.