How is forklift operator training enforced?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

OSHA enforces forklift training requirements in the following ways: Regular OSHA forklift operator audits After reported forklift accidents If there is a fatality If notified of improper forklift operating procedures

How long does forklift certification last? Does forklift certification expire? Do you have to renew your forklift certification?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

OSHA requires that forklift operators be evaluated once every 3 years. JIT Toyota-Lift recommends renewing forklift operators’ training once every 3 years as well. Equipment, operators’ physical conditions, and facility layouts often change, so reevaluation is critical. For more information, see our blog post How Often Must Forklift Operators Be Trained.  

What documentation is required to show proper forklift qualification?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

An employer is required to be able prove that all of its forklift operators have been certified. That certification shall include the name of the operator, date of training, date of evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation. JIT Toyota-Lift offers Forklift Training Qualification Wallet Cards, and Forklift Training Qualification Read more

Do you need a special driver’s license to become a forklift operator?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

No, there is no special forklift driver’s license. An employer is required to be able prove that all of its forklift operators have been certified. That certification shall include the name of the operator, date of training, date of evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation. JIT Toyota-Lift offers Forklift Read more

Do you need a special certificate or card to operate a forklift?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

An employer is required to be able prove that all of its forklift operators have been certified. That certification shall include the name of the operator, date of training, date of evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation. JIT Toyota-Lift offers Forklift Training Qualification Wallet Cards, and Forklift Training Qualification Read more

What exactly does OSHA require for forklift training? What is included in the OSHA forklift standard? What does the OSHA forklift standard say?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

The training requirement found in 29 CFR 1910.178(l) for operators of powered industrial trucks and the same requirement for operators of powered industrial trucks in the construction [1926.602(d)] and maritime [1915.120, 1910.16(a)(2)(x), 1910.16(b)(2)(xiv), 1917.1(a)(2)(xiv), 1918.l(b)(10)] industries specify that the employer must develop a complete training program. OSHA requires that operators of powered industrial trucks be Read more

What is 190.178?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

190.178 is an OSHA standard that mandates forklift operator training.

Who can instruct forklift training?

Joyce Schwob - August 7, 2017

Forklift training is instructed by a qualified trainer, who has been trained in the aspects of forklift functions, dynamics, and types of classes the equipment falls under. If you are interested in having your own trainer on your staff, JIT Toyota-Lift offers Train the Trainer Training.