OSHA 1910.178 (l) (4) (iii) states “An evaluation of each Powered Industrial Truck operators performance shall be conducted at least once every 3 years”. Everyone knows that!
Yet failure to provide appropriate training remains one of the top five forklift-related OSHA violations year after year. Moreover, it's considered a "Serious" violation with a minimum fine of $1036 and a maximum fine of $15,625 (in 2023).
Why is the citation so common? Many companies aren't aware OSHA requires forklift refresher training more frequently than every three years following certain situations.
Regulation 1910.178(l) (4) says refresher training in relevant topics shall be provided to the operator when:
- An operator has been observed to operate the vehicle in an unsafe manner
- The operator has been involved in an accident or near-miss incident
- The operator has been assigned to operate a different type of truck
- A condition in the workplace changes in a manner that could affect safe operation of the truck
Failure to Provide Refresher Training is a Top OSHA Violation
Some companies don’t realize the four items above require refresher training right away, even if it's only six months after an operator's initial certification. Additionally, OSHA requires an evaluation of the training provided.
Some organizations might perceive a near miss as something that's bound to happen in the course of "normal" driving, while others would flag it as an unsafe incident. Many such “grey” areas exist within the OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training requirements.
How can your organization ensure compliance with Cal/OSHA and OSHA forklift training requirements? Contact the forklift training professionals at TMHNC who can answer any questions you may have. We also offer free training evaluations.
Forklift Refresher Training in the Bay Area and Central California
TMHNC offers on-site forklift refresher training and certification throughout the Bay Area and California's Central Valley. All our forklift classes are available in Spanish, and we also offer “train the trainer” courses.
Our training department has dedicated full-time instructors available to:
- Train and certify operators on all types and classes of forklifts
- Train supervisors/managers to issue forklift certifications (Train the Trainer)
- Educate company officials on regulations to ensure compliance
- Train operators on Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP) boom lifts and scissor lifts
All training is available in English and Spanish – at your place of business or at one of our locations in Livermore, Sacramento, Fresno and Salinas.
For questions about OSHA forklift training requirements, forklift safety or to schedule a free on-site evaluation please contact us.
Further Reading:
- 4 Major Benefits of Forklift Safety Training
- Common Forklift Operator Injuries and How to Prevent Them
- Forklift Certification FAQs
