Forklifts are used extensively in many industries to ensure easy movement of heavy objects. They are widely used in construction sites and warehouses to move and stack objects safely and quickly. These machines are powerful, and their improper operation can lead to significant damage to material, equipment, or even people. This is why it is essential to get proper training and certification before operating a forklift.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States mandates that forklift operators must undergo proper training and certification before operating a forklift. After getting the certification, some people often wonder how long does a forklift certification last. The certification lasts for three years, after which it is essential to renew the certification.
So how long does a forklift certification last? Read more as we will dive deep and explore everything you need to know about forklift certification, including its importance, how to get certified, and how to renew your forklift certification.
Why Is Forklift Certification Important
Before we talk about the lifespan of forklift certification, let us first understand why it is essential. Forklifts are powerful machines that can cause significant damage and even result in fatalities when operated by untrained people. According to OSHA, over 95,000 forklift accidents are reported annually, out of which 85 are fatal accidents.
Training and forklift certification are necessary to ensure that the operator knows how to operate the forklift safely and prevent accidents. Employers are responsible for providing their employees with proper training and certification before they start operating a forklift. Training ensures that the operator knows how to inspect the forklift, handle the vehicle safely, and prevent accidents.
How To Get Forklift Certified
To operate a forklift legally, you need to get certified. The certification process involves formal classroom training, practical training, and an evaluation of your forklift operation skills. The training can be on-site or off-site, and it covers topics such as forklift types, stability, inspection, operation, and load handling.
Other requirements include the following:
- You must be at least 18 years old – Forklift operators must be 18 years old and above because of the physical and mental requirements to operate a forklift.
- You must have a valid driver’s license – The operator must possess a valid driver’s license to operate the forklift.
- You must be medically certified – Forklift operators must pass a medical evaluation that ensures they are physically and mentally fit to handle the machine safely.
- You must pass an exam – To get certified, you must pass a written or oral examination conducted by an authorized person or agency. The test covers topics such as equipment operation, load handling, stability, hazards prevention, maintenance, etc.
- You must receive an operator card from OSHA or your employer’s designated training provider – After you have passed the exam, your employer’s designated training provider will issue an operator card that states that you are qualified to operate the forklift safely.
After the training, you will receive a forklift certificate that proves that you have completed the training and are qualified to operate a forklift. Make sure that you obtain certification from a credible and experienced provider to ensure that you get quality training.
How Long Does The Certification Last
After completing the training and receiving the certification, many people wonder, how long does the certification last? The answer is that forklift certification expires after three years. This means that the forklift operator must renew their certification after every three years.
OSHA requires the operator to renew their certification to ensure that they stay updated with the changes in the industry, maintain their skills, and refresh their memory on the safe operation of a forklift.
How To Renew Your Forklift Certification
If your forklift certification is due for renewal, you must undergo a refresher course to renew your certification. The refresher course will be similar to the initial certification training, but it will focus on updating your knowledge of the new regulations and changes in the forklift industry.
You can attend the refresher course on-site or off-site, depending on your preference. During the course, you will learn about proper forklift operation, inspection, environmental hazards, load handling, and safety regulations.
After completing the refresher course, you will receive a new certification, which will be valid for three years.
What Happens If Your Forklift Certification Expires
If you fail to renew your forklift certification after three years, you cannot operate a forklift legally. Operating a forklift without a valid certificate can result in a hefty fine or even imprisonment.
In addition to legal consequences for the operator, the employer can also get penalized for allowing untrained employees to operate a forklift. Employers can receive fines of up to $13,260 for each violation of OSHA regulations.
It is essential to renew your forklift certification before it expires to ensure that you can continue operating the forklift safely and legally.
What Are The Instances When Your Forklift Certification Can Be Revoked
Your forklift certification can be revoked or suspended if you are found:
- Responsible for an accident – If you are found responsible for an accident due to negligence or recklessness, your certification can be revoked.
- Operating the forklift without proper certification – If you operate a forklift without valid certification, your employer has the right to suspend or revoke your license.
- Operating a forklift while under the influence of alcohol/drugs – Operating a forklift while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited, and it can result in your certification being revoked.
- Engaging in any unsafe practices – Any unsafe practices such as operating the equipment recklessly can result in the revocation of your certification.
- Misconduct – Any kind of misconduct on the job can result in your certification being suspended or revoked.
- Negligence – Negligence or carelessness on the job can also result in your certification being suspended or revoked.
Additionally, it can also be revoked if the training provider finds that you have not kept up with the changes in the industry or your skills have declined significantly since your initial certification training.
Therefore, to ensure that your certification remains valid, it is important to follow all safety protocols and regulations, maintain your skills and knowledge, and renew your certification on time.
In conclusion, forklift certification is necessary for anyone planning on operating a forklift in the workplace. It is mandatory to ensure safety in the workplace, prevent accidents, and avoid costly legal penalties for both employers and employees.
The forklift certificate is valid for three years, after which it is necessary to renew it. Renewing the certification involves undergoing a refresher course, which updates the operator on any new regulations, changes, and safety concerns in the industry.
Always remember to attend reputable training institutions to ensure you get quality training and certification. Do not let your certification expire and put your safety and that of your colleagues at risk.