Forklift Truck Operator Training

Forklift Truck Operator Training

By Ernest Jarquio

Since companies and all owners were required to properly equip all workers with training and knowledge in

forklift truck, courses have begun sprouting everywhere in all kinds of manner. Forklift truck operator training is vital to ensure that all operations remain safe and efficient for everyone. Having skilled workers at hand will also boost productivity in the long term.

Responsibilities

OSHA created a rule, which was finalized on December 1, 1998 stating that all

forklift truck operators should be trained before they begin to operate any heavy-duty machine. It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that all workers undergo sufficient training before assigning them to work. Employers will be held liable for any untoward incidents, which resulted from lack of training, knowledge or skill in the part of the operator. Insurance will not be covered by agencies if operators were not legally certified prior to accidents.

Training Online

There are plenty of online companies offering

forklift truck operator training at very reasonable rates. Users can simply choose the type of training course they want to pursue, fill out an application form and pay the necessary tuition fees. The course will then be made available for download in the chosen format. There are also courses that are valid with no specific schedule in which the student can take lessons or classes any time within the viable period of time. All the student needs to do is log on and type in the password provided specifically for him or her to continue from the last topic. The course will expire after a period of time.

The end of the training course will give a final test given through a link. Answers may be true or false, multiple choice, fill in the blanks or a combination of all three. Results are available immediately after the student finishes. Upon passing, the student will be sent an email containing a printable certificate and wallet card. Should the student fail, he or she will be allowed to review all materials again for a given number of days and allowed one retake depending on the agency. All topics given should effectively coincide with the recent stipulations set by the OSHA.

Facility

Training

Aside from classroom theory taken 3-4 hours per session, all potential workers also need to be properly trained in the actual facility setting. There may be machines available at the agency's site or employers may choose to have the training right at the main industrial site for practical applications. All important aspects regarding forklift truck operation will be covered like assessing the machine, assessing the load, analyzing possible threats, safety rules and regulations, driving and maneuvering, measuring load and overload precautions. At the end of the training, each student will be evaluated based on actual performance to get certified.Practical courses can last anywhere from 32 to 38 hours depending on the coverage and forklift truck types. Every forklift truck type to be handled by a worker should be specifically discussed and familiarized with. Forklift truck operator training is needed by all workers including experienced ones in order to expand their truck type coverage. Only through proper training will they be allowed to handle newer models and use advanced techniques. Employers to abide by the rules set by the OSHA then provide forklift truck operator training refresher courses every 3 to 5 years.