4 Top Reasons to Update Your Forklift Certification

by Phil Hanford, on March 27, 2020 at 11:15 AM

Blog Image 4Top Reasons to Update Your Forklift Certification
You already know how important forklift certification compliance is for your business. OSHA requires renewal training for your staff every 3 years. Washington State guidelines are in line with this standard, but also provide guidance to retrain operators as required.  

However, those are minimum requirements. Depending on your unique business situation, it may make sense to update your staff’s forklift certifications sooner. Here are 4 times to consider updating your crew’s certifications.

Respond to New OSHA Regulations

OSHA’s safety regulations for material handling equipment operators are regularly tweaked. Offer refresher training and certification programs in years with major revisions.  Keeping your training in line with the latest regulations is key for maintaining compliance and keeping your operators safe.

New Equipment, New Standards

If you’ve implemented new configurations to your forklift fleet, now may be the perfect time to refresh your forklift certifications. New equipment types, as well as updated equipment models, come with new standards for safe operation. Take advantage of these shifts to get your full staff of operators on board with your new standards.

Refresh and Standardize Certification Records

As staff turnover occurs, it’s common for some records or standards to be overlooked. If there’s a disparity in your training and certification records, retraining your operators presents the perfect opportunity to bring your records in line together.

Invest in Your Operators’ Safety

Perhaps the best reason to offer regular certification courses is to show your investment in your operators’ safety. By offering optional courses outside of the typical cadence, you send a message to your staff that you invest in their safety, well-being, and professional development.  

Need help keeping your operators forklift certified? Contact the team at Mid-Columbia Forklift and MidCo Material Handling for help bringing your training and certification programs in line with the latest equipment offerings and OSHA standards. We offer regularly scheduled training courses to help keep your staff safer while completing their essential work.

Further Reading:
Forklift Modifications and OSHA - What You Need to Know
Forklift Certification in Washington State
Forklift Operator Training for OSHA Compliance

Forklift Operator Training

Topics:ForkliftForklift SafetyForklift Training

About This Blog

Material handling articles to help answer the questions you have about forklifts, aerial equipment, utility vehicles, warehouse optimization, and safety.

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