What is forklift training?

After learning WHY proper forklift training is so important, the next question is...What does forklift training consist of? OSHA gives us guidelines that we should follow for the foundation of our training.

When referring to OSHA's regulation 29 CFR 1910.178(l) you can see the mandated topics that need to be covered. There are 13 truck-related topics and 9 workplace-related topics.

Moving on to the (m) section,of the same regulation, OSHA goes further into specific rules and regulations. The specific topics include: truck operations,traveling,loading,operation of the truck, and maintenance of industrial trucks.

Depending on your company, types of forklifts being used, and jobs the forklifts are being used for, some topics won't apply to your situation. Your work site may actually require MORE safety precautions!

One of the biggest advantages of using ON-SITE trainers is the fact that they can address your unique needs. I am a trainer for Forklift Certification Specialist based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth. One of the keys to our success is the fact that we shape our training to not only be OSHA compliant, but also site-specific.

Online certification is popular choice due to convenience and it's lower cost. However, we strongly advise companies going this route to also have someone in house who is very familiar with the forklifts they use, and the working environment they use them in. That person will still have to administer the driving test. Keep in mind..with online certification, students still must take the practical portion of the test by someone with the knowledge,training, and experience to do so.

After training hundreds of operators through on-site classes we've found that every single company has it's own unique concerns that need to be covered in training. Through evaluating the workplace,talking with managers and drivers those specific topics can be incorporated into the training class.

Proper forklift training does not have to be a mystery with a little research and the dedication to a safe working environment. Whether you have an in-house trainer, hire a company to do you training, or go online, make sure your training meets OSHA's standards and your own unique working environment needs.