9000 - OSHA Forklift Operator

Course Description

This training program is based on the general principles of safe truck operation, the types of vehicle(s) being used in the workplace, the hazards of the workplace created by the use of the vehicle(s), and the general safety requirements of the OSHA standard. Training comprises a combination of formal instruction (lecture, discussion, etc.), practical training (hands-on), and evaluation of the operator's performance. Employers must also certify that each operator has received the training and evaluate each operator at least once every three years.

Course Outline

(i) Truck-related topics: (A) Operating instructions, warnings, and precautions for the types of truck the operator will be authorized to operate; (B) Differences between the truck and the automobile; (C) Truck controls and instrumentation: where they are located, what they do, and how they work; (D) Engine or motor operation; (E) Steering and maneuvering; (F) Visibility (including restrictions due to loading); (G) Fork and attachment adaptation, operation, and use limitations; (H) Vehicle capacity; (I) Vehicle stability; (J) Any vehicle inspection and maintenance that the operator will be required to perform; (K) Refueling and/or charging and recharging of batteries; (L) Operating limitations; and (M) Any other operating instructions, warnings, or precautions listed in the operator’s manual for the types of vehicle that the employee is being trained to operate. (ii) Workplace-related topics: (A) Surface conditions where the vehicle will be operated; (B) Composition of loads to be carried and load stability; (C) Load manipulation, stacking, and unstacking; (D) Pedestrian traffic in areas where the vehicle will be operated; (E) Narrow aisles and other restricted places where the vehicle will be operated; (F) Hazardous (classified) locations where the vehicle will be operated; (G) Ramps and other sloped surfaces that could affect the vehicle’s stability; (H) Closed environments and other areas where insufficient ventilation or poor vehicle maintenance could cause a buildup of carbon monoxide or diesel exhaust; (I) Other unique or potentially hazardous environmental conditions in the workplace that could affect safe operation.

Learner Outcomes

After completing the training and evaluation, a qualified operator will be able to: 1) Inspect Equipment: Perform mandatory pre-operation and post-operation inspections using a checklist to check fluid levels, tires, brakes, mast chains, and safety devices. 2) Understand Vehicle Mechanics: Explain truck controls, instrumentation, engine operation, steering, maneuvering, and the physical differences between a forklift and a standard automobile. 3) Manage Load Stability: Calculate vehicle capacity, assess load weight and center of gravity, and safely stack, unstack, and move loads without tipping the vehicle. 4) Navigate Workplace Hazards: Identify and adapt to site-specific dangers, including pedestrian traffic, narrow aisles, ramps, grades, loading docks, and restricted or hazardous areas. 5) Handle Fuel and Batteries: Demonstrate proper and safe procedures for changing propane tanks, recharging lead-acid batteries, or refueling internal combustion engines. 6) Demonstrate Competency: Operate the specific class of forklift safely and efficiently during a practical, hands-on performance evaluation conducted by a qualified workplace trainer.