When it comes to warehouse equipment, safety is our top priority. At G&W, we are making sure our customers are following every OSHA warehouse regulation to keep their business going in the right direction.
70% of all industrial accidents are operator induced (National Safety Council). Effective training may reduce accident rates by 25% to 30% (OSHA). After training, OSHA found a 61% improvement in operator performance scores. What are the OSHA forklift requirements? Let’s learn how to keep everyone properly trained and safe.
OSHA Forklift Requirements
According to OSHA, forklifts are one of the leading causes of injury in the workplace. Adhering to OSHA’s equipment requirements is an obvious step to helping prevent incidents in the workplace.
Forklift Operator License
To operate a forklift, you must obtain a forklift operating license, be properly trained and be 18 or older. Having a forklift operating license is a must as forklifts are very powerful and can be dangerous if not used correctly.
In most cases, an employer that requires forklift use can provide the necessary certification. To obtain this license you must conduct a written test that shows your knowledge of safety and forklift procedures, as well as a practical skills hands-on test.
Documented License
Forklift operating certifications typically need to be renewed every three years. It is mandatory to have the name of each person operating a forklift, their training and certification date documented on file.
Forklift Training
To ensure safety, forklift training is essential. Employers must follow OSHA warehouse equipment regulations as they are responsible for making sure each employee has received proper forklift training.
Proper forklift training entails:
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- Classroom instruction: Knowledge about types of forklifts, forklift controls, forklift safety standards, workplace safety/hazards and forklift maintenance.
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- Physical training: Operating the forklift, demonstrating the ability to conduct tasks and practicing with materials.
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- Certification: Written test and hands-on practical skills evaluation.
G&W can help with all of your forklift training needs.
Forklift Safety Guards
Forklift safety guards are another OSHA regulation. Overhead safety guards must be installed on the equipment to shield the operator from falling objects. The only exception for a safety guard to be removed is if it constricts the ability for the forklift to enter a space.
Forklift Maintenance
To follow OSHA equipment guidelines, the employer is required to perform a periodic check of each forklift. This check includes documenting issues and ensuring the forklifts are running in perfect condition.
Let’s Talk About Your Needs
We care about your education and safety in the warehouse. Our forklift safety trainer can provide customized onsite lift safety training for your operators, which will help prevent accidents and costs associated with those accidents. “Train the Trainer” programs are also available so your safety managers can learn how to properly and effectively train your lift operators.
We can customize a plan for you that will include initial training and subsequent courses for those that could use a refresh in their safety training. Contact us today about any OSHA forklift requirements, forklift training, or any general question. Our end goal is that we train you to make sure that your operators are safe and OSHA compliant.