Cal/OSHA Forklift Training Requirements

Cal/Osha has their own set of rules and regulations regarding the safe operation of Powered Industrial Trucks and the training requirements for them. The rules, regulations and forklift training requirements are as follows.

Safe Operation Forklift Training:

1. The employer must ensure that each powered industrial truck operator is competent to operate the machine safely, demonstrated by the successful completion of both classroom and practical training on the machines that they will operate in the workplace.
2. In addition to classroom and practical training, the employer must also evaluate each operator’s safe operating skills at least every three years.

A Training program must be implemented. Trainees may operate a Forklift or Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) only:

1. Under the direct supervision of people who have the knowledge, training and experience to train operators and evaluate their competence to operate a PIT.
2. Where operating the forklift does not endanger the trainee or other employees.
3. Training must consist of both formal instruction and practical training. Formal instruction must consist of the following: lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video tape, and/or written material. Practical training must consist of demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee. An evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace must be written up by the trainer passing or failing the training operator.
4. All operator training and evaluation shall be conducted by a person who has the knowledge, training and experience to train forklift operators and evaluate their competence and ability to operate a forklift.

Training program content:

Forklift Operators must receive initial training on the following topics, except the topics which the employer can demonstrate do not apply to the safe operation of the Forklift in the employer’s workplace:

Topics that pertain to the machine:

1. Operating instructions, warnings, and precautions for the types of forklifts the operator will be authorized to operate in their work environment.
2. The differences between a forklift and a automobile.
3. Forklift controls and instrumentation: where they are located, what they do, and how they work.
4. Engine or motor operation (Engine is for Gasoline, diesel, or LPG Powered. Motor is for battery powered or electric powered).
5. Steering and handling a forklift (i.e. rear steering)
6. Visibility (including visibility with a load or unloaded)
7. Adapting to Fork and attachment, operation, and use limitations.
8. Forklift capacity (using the data plate).
9. Forklift stability (including the stability triangle)
10. All vehicle inspection and maintenance that the operator will be required to perform.
11. Proper way to refuel and/or charging and recharging of batteries.
12. Operating limitations when operating a forklift.
13. All other operating instructions, warnings, or precautions listed in the operator’s manual for the types of forklifts that the employee is being trained to operate.

Topics that pertain to the workplace:

1. Surface conditions where the forklift will be operated (Groomed and un-groomed surfaces)(watching hazards that could cause the operating surface to change)
2. Positioning of loads and load stability.
3. Manipulating loads, stacking, and unstacking.
4. Operators must be trained on pedestrian traffic in areas where the forklift will be operated.
5. Narrow aisles and other restricted areas where the forklift will be operated.
6. All hazardous areas where the forklift will be operated.
7. Going up and down Ramps. As well as driving on other sloped surfaces that could affect the forklift’s stability.
8. Closed environments and other areas where poor ventilation or vehicle maintenance could cause a build-up of carbon monoxide or exhaust fumes.
9. Other potential hazards in the workplace that could affect safe operation of a forklift in the workplace not mentioned above.

The above information is the basic training requirements set by Cal/OSHA. Cal/OSHA states that going over and above these requirements is recommended. First American Safety’s forklift training goes over and above the Cal/OSHA Requirements. Our forklift training program is detailed and complete, yet understandable and informative for your employees.  We will train your employees not only about safe forklift operation, but also provide valuable tips and tricks on how to be a more efficient and skilled operator.

People are killed every year on forklifts in America’s workplaces because of inadequate forklift training.  Get compliant and improve safety in you workplace by having First American Safety provide forklift training today!

Do you or your employees need forklift training, or even just a refresher?  Visit our online training website for our excellent online forklift certification training course!

Cal/OSHA’s powered industrial truck training requirements can be found here.