Forklifts hold an important place in the material industry. They perform tasks like lifting and moving materials to short distances. While this heavy equipment is a significant asset to the warehouse, it is potentially dangerous in several situations. Hence, the forklift operators need to undergo proper training to operate these heavy pieces of equipment safely.
OSHA forklift certification is an industry-standard training program that is considered essential for forklift operators. This article discusses the importance of this forklift certification program.
What Is the OSHA Forklift Training?
OSHA is short for Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor. According to OSHA, every forklift operator needs to have a forklift certification. The certification adopts a performance-oriented approach while evaluating candidates.
Required by the Law
According to the Department of Labor of the United States, OSHA forklift certification is mandatory to avoid workplace injuries and enhance the workplace’s safety. If the OSHA authorities find any person operating a forklift without proper forklift certification, the employer might be fined up to $7000 for disregarding the workplace safety laws.
If the OSHA administration finds any negligence, it may levy a fine up to $70,000. The forklift operator needs to be 18 years of age or older. If the employer ignores the mandatory requirement, the OSHA administration may ask the employer to pay an additional fine.
Remember, the insurance company may reject the claim if the forklift operator is not an OSHA certification holder. It means the employer will have to pay for the damage and the medical treatment of the injured from their pocket.
For Safety
According to a leading study, every 100+ deaths occur due to forklift mishaps. Contrary to the belief, the forklift operator is not the only person to get injured in a forklift accident. All employees at the workplace are at the risk of getting injured in forklift accidents.
An OSHA certification ensures the operator has received appropriate training to operate the heavy equipment. This one thing reduces the risk of forklift accidents at the workplace.
Cost Savings
Forklift accidents not only cause loss of life and injuries, but it also causes damage to the product. Without proper training, the operator is more likely to misuse the product, which leads to expensive repairs. The training program focuses on the right way of using forklifts. It also teaches the importance of performing periodic maintenance to keep the equipment in good shape and avoid expensive repairs and replacement.
Most businesses can realize cost savings by ensuring the operator receives proper Forklift training as per OSHA guidelines. The cost savings are realized in reduced downtimes, reduction in accidents, and improved efficiency.
Increased Productivity
Since a forklift is a complicated piece of machinery, professional training and certification can help the operator operate it efficiently, which would increase productivity. For example, if the forklift operator can handle the loads and truck efficiently, they can do more work in less time. The operator will be able to achieve a faster turnaround for daily tasks that will increase productivity.
The OSHA certification not only provides proper training but also instills confidence in the lift operator. With training and practice, the forklift operator would drive the forklift with confidence and gain operational skills.
Competitive Edge
If you are looking for a job in a warehouse, an OSHA certification will give you a competitive edge over others. The OSHA certification is one of the essential certifications that increases your chances of getting the job. Here are some reasons how an applicant benefits from OSHA certification.
The certification shows you have the necessary skills for the job. If the job profile includes driving a forklift, it is imperative to have such forklift certification to be considered for the post.
An OSHA certification will ensure the company will not be required to spend time and money on your training. The company would prefer the new hire to be put on work immediately when you have forklift certification.
Earning an OSHA certification shows your proactiveness towards your job profile. It shows you are aware of the mandatory requirements to work as a forklift operator. It also shows you abide by the law and care about the industry and safety of yourself and others working with you.
To sum up, these are some of the reasons to get OSHA forklift certification. Remember, just getting a certification is not enough; you need to renew your certification every three years to keep your workplace certification updated and meet the compliance requirements.
