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:
- Formal instruction on OSHA standards, forklift operations, and workplace hazards
- Practical training with hands-on demonstrations and exercises
- 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:
- Implement a comprehensive training program for all forklift operators
- Schedule regular evaluations and retraining sessions
- Keep detailed records of all training and certifications
- 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.
