Forklift Safety and Compliance

As a distributor, we provide this information as a courtesy to help you understand your obligations, but the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with you, the equipment owner and employer.

OSHA Regulations for Forklift Operators

As a forklift buyer and employer, it’s crucial to understand and comply with OSHA regulations to ensure workplace safety and avoid penalties. Here are the key requirements:

• All forklift operators must be trained and certified before operation
• Operators must be at least 18 years old
• Performance evaluations are required at least once every three years
• Retraining is mandatory after accidents, near-misses, or observed unsafe operation

Required Training Components

Your forklift operator training program should include:

1. Formal instruction on OSHA standards, forklift operations, and workplace hazards
2. Practical training with hands-on demonstrations and exercises
3. Evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace

Training must be specific to your forklift type and working conditions, covering topics such as:

• Operating instructions and warnings
• Controls and instrumentation
• Engine or motor operation
• Steering and maneuvering
• Fork and attachment usage
• Vehicle capacity and stability
• Refueling and recharging procedures
• Workplace-specific hazards

Certification Requirements

After training, you must certify each operator. The certification should include:

• Name of the operator
• Date of training
• Date of evaluation
• Identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation

As an employer, you’re responsible for maintaining these training and certification records.

Your Next Steps

To ensure compliance and maintain a safe workplace:

1. Implement a comprehensive training program for all forklift operators
2. Schedule regular evaluations and retraining sessions
3. Keep detailed records of all training and certifications
4. Stay informed about any updates to OSHA regulations

Remember, safety is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting your most valuable asset: your employees.