Fork Lift Safety

A forklift in motion is a safety risk in motion. Ensure your operators have received the proper forklift safety training. There are many different types of powered industrial trucks, and each type presents different operating hazards. The most familiar powered industrial trucks are commonly known as pallet trucks, rider trucks, forklifts or lift trucks. Forklifts/Lift trucks are extremely useful in the workplace, as long as they are safely used by trained operators.

Forklift Safety Training Requirements

Employers must develop and implement a training program based on the general principles of safe truck operation, the types of vehicle(s) being used and the hazards they create. Trained operators must know how to do the job properly and safely, as demonstrated by workplace evaluations. Formal (lecture, video, etc.) and practical (demonstration and practical exercises) training must be provided. Employers must also certify that each operator has received the training and evaluate each operator’s performance at least once every three years.

Training Program Content

Operators must be initially trained in the following truck-related and workplace-related topics:

• Truck Related:

  • Operating instructions, warnings and precautions for type of truck
  • Similarities and differences with automobiles
  • Control and instrumentation location and use
  • Engine or motor operation
  • Steering and maneuvering
  • Visibility
  • Fork and attachment limitations and use
  • Vehicle capacity
  • Vehicle stability
  • Vehicle inspection and maintenance
  • Refueling or charging batteries
  • Operating limitations
  • Other operating instructions, warnings or precautions listed in the operator's manual

• Workplace Related:

  • Surface conditions where the truck is used
  • Load composition and stability
  • Load stacking, unstacking and transport
  • Pedestrian traffic
  • Narrow aisle and restricted area operation
  • Operation in hazardous locations
  • Ramp and sloped surface operation
  • Unique or potentially hazardous conditions
  • Operating the vehicle in closed environments

Because powered industrial trucks are manufactured by different companies with various models available, the training must be specific to the operating characteristics of the specific powered industrial truck the employee will be using. If an operator was previously trained on one of these topics, and the training is appropriate to the truck and working conditions encountered, additional training on that topic is not required if the operator has been evaluated and found competent to operate the truck safely.

Who Would Benefit:

• Individuals requiring forklift certification
• Forklift operator trainers
• Forklift operators
• Warehouse/shipping/receiving managers
• Construction site managers
• Safety managers
• Safety committee members
• Operations managers