To become a certified forklift truck operator, it is generally recommended that operators take a forklift safety training course. To get the best forklift safety training, check with workforce training agencies, forklift certification programs, or United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved video and online courses. Often, these resources are offered for free or for a very low cost by occupational safety officers on job sites or through employment agencies.
In most countries, including the United States, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to operate a forklift truck. In addition, forklift operators must take an OSHA-approved forklift safety training course and obtain a certificate to operate this type of heavy equipment. This certificate is generally good for four years in most regions. Failure to keep this certificate up to date while operating forklifts can result in serious liability issues for the companies that hire workers to use forklift trucks on the job.
Serious injuries and property damage can occur when forklift operators are not properly trained. In many cases, a supervisor who has undergone extensive training in forklift safety and is a certified trainer will provide hands-on training of new employees. This supervisor will cover the proper operation, driving, and loading techniques so that others will learn the right way to operate a forklift truck on the work site. As part of this training, employees may also be required to watch forklift safety training videos and take a written exam in order to become certified forklift operators.
For those who have not yet attained employment in a warehouse, there are other options for obtaining the best forklift safety training and certification. Having this certification can open up job opportunities for manual laborers. The forklift training may be provided by a workforce development agency or sponsored through an employment or staffing company. Candidates seeking work as forklift operators can request forklift safety training that is conducted by an OSHA-approved trainer at an independent site.
It is also possible to get forklift safety training through video and online formats. Some free forklift safety modules are available on the Internet. To get certified in most regions, students must take a written exam and a driving test in a real forklift. These tests are usually offered at companies that offer regular classes in forklift safety training.