To operate a forklift, not just any license will do. You need specialized instruction to utilize the specific machine at your job site. For anyone new to forklift operation, interested in changing roles or needing to re-up their certification, it’s time for a trip to a forklift academy (or other training environment).
For those well-versed in industrial trucks, the term “forklift classes” may bring to mind the seven classifications of industrial trucks. However, this article isn’t about forklift taxonomies, for anyone searching for a “forklift certification class near me.”
Earning a forklift license (not a “fork lift license,” which you earn at dinner), is both machine-specific and site-specific. This means that while all forklift training is similar, the location of the classes can vary. This is because every workplace has different requirements and potential hazards. For example, an operator’s responsibilities at a warehouse with heavy pedestrian traffic are different than a wide-open construction site with rough terrain. Even using the term “forklift license” is misleading because there is no such thing as a forklift license. Only vehicles driven on public roads require a license to operate. However, forklift operators must become certified before working with any industrial truck.
Forklift schools
According to OSHA regulations (specifically 1910.178(l)(1)(i)), employers must ensure their employees are certified to operate a powered industrial truck. Every operator is also required to take a refresher course at least once every three years.
How employees achieve their forklift training certificate is up to the employer. Some employers may choose to have future operators attend third-party forklift operator training schools. How these forklift schools operate can vary. Some forklift operator schools are entirely on-site while others offer online classes and on-site training.
The typical structure of a forklift academy includes classroom instruction and hands-on training. The classroom instruction covers safety regulations, equipment maintenance, operational procedures and the principles of material handling. Hands-on training focuses on the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace.
Attending a forklift academy offers several benefits. First, attendees receive instruction from experienced professionals who are up to date on the latest industry standards and safety practices. Second, the structured curriculum ensures that all necessary topics are covered comprehensively. Third, attendees practice operating an industrial truck in a safe, supervised environment before entering a work area teaming with other employees and pedestrians.
Employers also have the option to create their training curriculum and have a worksite-specific forklift driver course. Also, anyone who takes an online course may be able to complete the hands-on portion with a supervisor at their job site.
Obtaining a forklift certification
The process of obtaining a forklift certification generally involves these steps:
- Enrolling in a recognized training program that’s offered by a school or qualified training provider.
- Completing the classroom instruction focusing on safety protocols and operational techniques.
- Passing a written exam on the academic aspects of forklift operation.
- Attending hands-on training to practice operating a forklift under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
- Passing the practical skills test that showcases the student’s ability to safely enter a forklift drive the vehicle carefully and perform the everyday duties of the job.
Once these steps are complete, the student receives their forklift certification.
A forklift academy example
A good example of a forklift academy is the Home Depot forklift certification course. Home Depot is one of the largest home improvement retailers in the United States. Its forklift certification program is designed to ensure that all operators are properly trained and keep both customers and employees safe.
The course begins with a wide-ranging lift equipment training class that covers operational procedures common to all machines. Once the generalities are out of the way, the next step is a class on the specific machine the employee will use daily, such as a forklift, reach, order picker, pacer and electric pallet jack.
Once all classroom portions are successfully completed, it’s time for a ride with a lift equipment trainer. This trip usually follows a predetermined path and includes demonstrations of specific skills, including controlling the machine, carrying a pallet, placing a pallet and navigating tight turns.
Anyone who demonstrates mastery with their specific machine will receive a license stating they are approved to operate that machine at a Home Depot. Remember how we stated earlier that a license is not required to operate an industrial truck? Well, an employer can make their own rules, as long as they don’t interfere with OSHA requirements.
In addition to home improvement retailers, warehouses and distribution centers continue to proliferate, meaning that the need for skilled forklift operators is more vital than ever. A forklift academy and other third-party and in-house training operations help develop skilled and safety-conscious forklift operators.
As these operators keep your fleet running effectively, we can help ensure that it runs efficiently. Texas Motive Solutions offers a complimentary non-invasive Power Study. This service allows us to find out:
- The power requirements your operation truly needs.
- How to improve operational efficiencies for optimal battery utilization.
- What type of forklift batteries and chargers would work best in your application.
- How to best optimize the performance of your forklift fleet to prolong battery life and ensure warranty coverage.
We also provide the best forklift batteries and accessories for your operation. Give us a call to discover how our complimentary forklift fleet performance analysis can optimize the performance of your forklift fleet. Please reach out to (888) 316-2459 or fill out this form and learn about our services to discover everything that we can do for you.
