622 Forklift Competent Person

Introduction

OSHA defines a "Competent Person" as one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

According to OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.178(l)(2)(iii), training for forklift operators must be conducted by persons with the necessary knowledge, training, and experience to train powered industrial truck operators and evaluate their competence. This requirement ensures that forklift operators receive proper and effective training that addresses the specific risks and operational characteristics of powered industrial trucks.

This course helps to fulfill OSHA's instructional training requirements for Forklift Competent Persons as required by the following OSHA regulations:

• General Industry: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178
• Construction: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.602(d) and 1926.451(g)(2)
• Oil and Gas: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178
• Maritime: OSHA 29 CFR 1917.43 and OSHA 29 CFR 1918.65
• Agriculture: OSHA 29 CFR 1928.57(a)(6)

To be fully certified as a competent person, the student must also demonstrate to the employer adequate knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to identify and take effective preventive measures to safely operate forklifts.

The employer is ultimately responsible for certifying that the operator is qualified to be certified as a competent person. This certification occurs when another competent person evaluates the operator and confirms their proficiency.

It is a good idea to keep a record of all safety and health training. Documentation can also supply an answer to one of the first questions an incident investigator will ask: “Did the employee receive adequate training to do the job?”

Course Objectives