Lift Truck Training
Lots of industries make use of powered industrial trucks for material handling. In the recycling business, internal combustion powered forklifts are generally used. Lift truck operation requires well trained operators. Training is a requirement in North America, and for good reason. A forklift could cause serious property damage or personal injury if not operated safely. A loaded forklift could weight three times as much as a car. Lift trucks are responsible for numerous industrial accidents, either as the secondary or the primary source of the accident. Reports of fatalities or injuries involving both operators or pedestrians are all very commonplace.
Training Requirement
Employers must develop and apply a training program for operators based on four factors: the general principles of safe truck operation, the kinds of vehicles being utilized within the workplace, the general safety requirements, according to OSHA and the particular hazards of the workplace. Training includes both formal and practical parts. At the completion of the training, operators need to pass an assessment showing they have the ability to operate the truck properly. OSHA also requires that powered industrial truck operators must be trained in certain specific topics that apply to operating a lift truck safely.