For most forklift training and general industry organizations, forklifts are an essential piece of equipment. As such, specific forklift safety measures must be in place to protect the operator and those working around the vehicle. Training is a vital part of forklift safety, as it can help to reduce accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Forklift Training

Most workers who use powered industrial trucks (PIT) receive formal training before they begin their jobs. This can include lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning and/or videotapes, along with practical hands-on training on the specific model of forklift that the worker will be using in the workplace. This is important, because there are different kinds of forklifts, and a general instruction on how to operate them would not be enough.

Safety First: The Importance of Forklift Certification and How to Get Started

Other elements of training include an explanation of the physical laws that allow forklifts to lift heavy loads. This is because, if an operator doesn’t understand how much a forklift can safely lift, they could over-balance the truck and cause it to topple over. This is a common cause of injury for both operators and bystanders.

It’s also important to instruct workers on how to perform a pre-shift inspection of their forklifts. A thorough inspection should include a visual check of the lights, horn, hoses, mirrors and fluid levels, as well as an operational test to ensure that all controls are functioning properly. In addition, workers should know how to correctly remove a forklift from service when it’s in question.