Today, many private companies and institutions require employees operating forklifts to undergo training courses. These classes offer a vital introduction to widely used warehouse and loading dock equipment. Just consider a few of the major reasons why forklift operator training remains critically important:
One: Forklifts Have Become Complex
The impressive variety of different forklifts on the market reinforces the necessity of comprehensive training programs. For instance, the United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety And Health Administration recognizes some seven different classes of forklifts. This machinery ranges from electric motor rider trucks to special forklifts designed for extremely rough terrain. Businesses needs to know how to maintain and operate every specialized type of forklift used at a job site.
Two: Training Contributes to Safer Forklift Operations
Some experts maintain that without training classes, forklift operators would likely contribute to many accidents at facilities that utilize heavy equipment. Sadly, OSHA data indicates that every year in the United States approximately 85 fatalities related to forklift use. Over 34,000 workers report injuries from accidents involving this machinery annually.
Three: Employers Sometimes Face Liability For Forklift Accidents
Companies benefit greatly by sending any employees who operate forklifts to qualified training programs. Safety training reduces accident potentials, and also enables companies with trained workers to conduct safer plant and warehouse operations. The problem of forklifts tipping over and crushing workers in the past has accounted for about 25% of fatal accidents involving this type of specialized machinery, for instance. Employees who receive training gain greater awareness about this issue. Today, OSHA mandates certification classes for certain employees who use forklifts at job sites; failure to comply with this requirement can lead to employer fines and sanctions if accidents occur.
Four: Correct Forklift Operation Contributes to Efficiency
Finally, another reason to make sure that employees obtain training in the use of forklifts and other items of specialized equipment relates to enhanced productivity. Concerns about wasted time due to poorly organized logistical operations has prompted some employers to equip forklifts with computers, so workers can locate and track specific items in warehouses more easily during retrieval. Forklift operators who receive training in the use of these highly specialized computerized items of equipment perform more efficiently.
Requiring Forklift Operator Training
Even firms that utilize forklifts infrequently may benefit by ensuring that anyone operating heavy equipment equipment undergoes thorough training. By learning how to maintain forklifts and operate them safely, companies minimize the risk of accidents while enhancing productivity.
