Becoming a Certified Forklift Operator
Forklift operator is one of the jobs where you just can’t have zero open job spots. Cargo is being shipped around the world everyday and storages and warehouses will always be in need of skilled forklift operators who will move the cargo around the docks and warehouses. Forklifts are also widely used while constructing buildings, because all of the building materials can’t be moved by hand.
This job requires you to be focused all the time and it is important to pay attention to all the details. Despite this fact, education is not needed in order to become a forklift operator – a high school diploma or GED will be more than enough. A lot of training will be needed in order to become a good forklift operator.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) the employers are held responsible for the training of their operators. Each employer is obligated to have a training program which will teach the new employee how to safely operate the forklift.
The training sessions have to consist of both practical and formal knowledge. All of the training sessions must be observed by an experienced employee who will guide and help the new employee.
However, the OSHA only obligates employers to run the training program, however, they don’t have a defined training program for employers to follow. The only thing required is that the employer documents all the training. Besides that, the coach isn’t a “certified forklift operator”, but instead a qualified worker at the facility.
Forklift operator training consists of three main parts:
Formal Training: during this phase you will learn all you need to know about various forklift operations and the safety measures. Most employers provide the employee with different instructional videos which help the novice forklift operator to understand forklift operations better.
Practical Training: This is the phase where all the fun starts. You will get to drive the forklift and learn how to operate it properly and safely. You will constantly be observed by your trainer who will point out nay mistakes you make and help you fix them.
Formal Evaluation: This can easily be called a final exam. If you pass it, the trainer will document all your training and you will finally be allowed to work with a forklift without direct supervision.
Despite the current economy crisis, there are still many open job spots for forklift drivers, so it shouldn’t be hard to find a training program as long as you are interested in working with a forklift.
Becoming forklift operator – Read more about how to get forklift certification and free forklift certification.
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