How to Get a Forklift Operator OSHA Certified
The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers train all forklift operators in proper driving and safety precautions. Employers are responsible for training each driver for the forklift he specifically drives. While certification cards are not required, they are a good tool to keep track of employee certification which is good for 3 years.
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Instructions
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Find a safety consulting firm that trains employees using OSHA standards for the specific forklifts they operate (see Resources).
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Consider taking a train-the-trainer course from a safety consulting firm with superior knowledge of OSHA standards and regulations. OSHA only requires that the trainer be knowledgeable of the safety regulations.
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Send a department manager or human resource employee to OSHA a training firm to teach your employees. This course is not required to be a trainer, but it may be cost effective if there are a significant number of forklift drivers.
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Teach employees proper forklift safety and operation using materials from either OSHA's website or a training company. This teaching should include written or mass media forms of information as well as hands-on experience.
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Evaluate the employee's understanding of the OSHA guidelines by testing him. Review his forklift operating abilities and understanding of the safety requirements.
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Certify that the employee meets all OSHA standards when operating the forklift. Certification is good for 3 years and does not require a forklift operator card.
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Tips & Warnings
Find a safety training program that provides certification cards to your employees after they have completed the requirements.
Certification cards are beneficial proof to insurance or OSHA representatives. Cards are optional ways to keep track of employee training.
Forklift certification does not carry over from one company to another. When you get a new job, you need to be trained and certified by that employer.
