Operating a forklift is a safety-critical task that requires specialized skills and knowledge. To reduce the risk of injury or death, operators must be properly trained, evaluated, and authorized.
- Minimum Age: Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA 29 CFR 570.120), individuals must be at least 18 years old to operate forklifts. This rule protects minors from work deemed hazardous or detrimental to their health and well-being.
Training and Certification Requirements
Employers are responsible for ensuring that all forklift operators are trained, evaluated, and certified before operating a forklift independently, in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(l)(3).
Certification Process:
- Formal Instruction: Operators must receive classroom or video-based training covering:
- Forklift operation
- Load handling
- Hazard recognition
- Safe driving practices specific to the type of forklift and work environment
- Hands-On Training: Supervised practical training on the specific forklift type.
- Performance Evaluation: A qualified trainer evaluates the operator in the workplace. Only operators who pass are authorized to operate independently.
Documentation:
- Certification must include:
- Operator’s name
- Date of training and evaluation
- Trainer/evaluator identity
Refresher Training and Re-Evaluation
Refresher training is required if:
- An operator is observed operating unsafely
- Involvement in an accident or near-miss
- Unsatisfactory evaluation results
- Assigned to a different type of forklift
- Workplace conditions change affecting safe operation
Re-Evaluation: Every forklift operator must be evaluated at least once every three years to ensure continued safe performance.