Introduction
This course has general information about the classes and divisions of forklifts (also called Powered Industrial Trucks, or PITs) used in the workplace. It also covers the principles necessary to understand for safe loading, transferring loads, and unloading. Forklift operator training requirements and general best practices in operating, servicing and maintaining forklifts are discussed. The hazards associated with operating forklifts in enclosed areas and construction sites are also discussed. The course also helps to fulfill OSHA's instructional training requirements for forklift certification as follows:
- 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, the student must also demonstrate to the employer adequate knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to safely operate forklifts to a competent person.
The employer is ultimately responsible for certifying that the operator is qualified to operate forklifts. This certification occurs when a competent person evaluates the operator and confirms their adequate proficiency.
Course Objectives
| ID | Objective |
|---|---|
| TO 1.0 | Achieve a minimum score of 70% on the final course assessment. |
| LO 1.1.1 | Identify the classes and designations for forklifts. |
| LO 1.2.1 | Describe forklift operator qualification and training requirements. |
| LO 1.3.1 | Define and give examples describing forklift "stability triangle," "center of gravity," and "moment." |
| LO 1.4.1 | Describe safe practices when operating a forklift, including traveling and moving on uneven surfaces. |
| LO 1.5.1 | Describe requirements for forklift operations, including loading, traffic patterns, housekeeping, and maintenance records. |
| LO 1.6.1 | Describe requirements for gas/LPG forklift maintenance and safe work practices. |
| LO 1.7.1 | Describe electric forklift maintenance procedures and safe practices. |
Key: Terminal Objective (TO), Learning Objective (LO)