Forklift certification is often a requirement for people who work in warehouses.
Earning a forklift certification is often a general skill requirement for employees in warehouse, construction, or industrial jobs. Getting certified to operate a forklift safely is similar to any other on-the-job training process: you must follow a certain method of education and assessment. There are many ways to become certified as a forklift operator, either on your own or through your current employer.
Forklift certifications are used to ensure the safe operation of the vehicle.
Local safety organizations require most companies that own and operate forklifts to ensure that all employees who will drive a forklift are trained and certified. One such organization that requires forklift operators to be certified in the United States is called OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Failure to properly train all forklift operators can result in heavy fines and penalties for employers.
Many forklift certification courses begin with classroom instruction, but also include a hands-on component.
If you work for a company that requires the use of forklifts, you will likely undergo a forklift training certification program taught by a local manager. Topics taught may include a general understanding of forklift components, proper use of a forklift, and safety tips. During the training, your understanding of the training will be assessed and a performance test will be administered, on which you will receive a certification card.
In other cases, if you want to become a certified forklift driver, you may need to take a course taken at a forklift or industrial equipment certification training school. The course will consist of in-depth training on different types of forklifts, safety techniques, and a written and driving test. Upon successful completion of the test, you will receive a forklift certification card.
Once a forklift certification is obtained, it is generally valid for two to three years, much like a driver’s license. The forklift certification designation is portable, meaning it can be used for any job you perform on a forklift at any employer job site. Depending on the type of work you do, this is considered an advantage when looking for a forklift operator job.
Earning a forklift certification is an important requirement for many industrial-type jobs. Lack of forklift operator training and certification could cause serious injury to you, other employees, and company property. Before operating a forklift, ask your immediate supervisor about becoming a forklift operator certified to avoid costly mistakes.