Let’s face it, forklifts are the workhorses of warehouses and construction job sites. They lift, carry, and shift heavy things. But as useful as they are, they can be dangerous. Forklift accidents without appropriate certifications can result in serious injuries or sometimes even death, as well as price tags for damaged property.
According to OSHA, there are roughly 85 deaths a year and about 35,000 serious injuries in the U.S. caused by forklift accidents. It is clear that when every apparatus to get the job done is at your fingertips, forklift certification becomes more than just a way to check a box; it is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of those inside a workplace and ensuring companies comply with OSHA standards. Every year, hundreds of workplace-related injuries that are preventable occur because there are untrained forklift operators.
This blog will provide an overview of why OSHA requires certification, how to obtain forklift certification, and where to find quality training programs, including Get OSHA Courses, a leader in OSHA-compliant forklift training.
Forklift certification will serve as testament that an operator has successfully gone through the necessary forklift training, both in theory and in hands-on practice, and successfully handles forklifts so that they perform their duties without endangering lives or violating the OSHA laws of forklift operation. OSHA’s standards clearly state that all forklift operators have to be trained and assessed by employers prior to operating an assisted industrial truck using power.
The OSHA forklift certification process usually entails:
On completion, operators get a forklift license or certification card that is valid for three years. Compliance is just one aspect of this certification, but it is also about saving lives and preventing accidents.
For organizations that want to strengthen their safety culture beyond forklift operations, explore the comprehensive guide to OSHA compliance and environmental safety best practices
All workplaces that utilize forklifts should be concerned about certification. Correct forklift certification ensures that workers have been trained to identify hazards, work safely with loads, and maintain control even in demanding situations.
According to a 2023 study by the National Safety Council, it was found that approximately 70 percent of forklift accidents could have been prevented had the operators received proper forklift safety training. The certified operators will be better equipped to identify blind spots, ensure stable loads, and prevent potentially dangerous maneuvers that could result in rollovers or collisions.
Here’s how forklift certification protects both employees and employers:
OSHA fines for unqualified operators may exceed $15,000 per offense, without considering potential lawsuits or the time and costs associated with an accident.
Providing all workers with OSHA forklift certification, companies create a safe culture of first policies that save money, improve morale, and save lives.
Not all forklifts are created equal—and neither are training programs. Operators must receive instruction specific to the type of forklift they’ll be using. Luckily, there are specialized OSHA-approved courses available for every need.
This foundational course is ideal for beginners. It covers the essentials of forklift operation, safety regulations, load handling, and risk prevention.
Designed for construction and outdoor job sites, this course focuses on operating forklifts on uneven or rough terrain—where balance, traction, and control are critical.
Perfect for warehouse environments, this course trains workers to handle multiple powered industrial trucks safely and efficiently.
Each of these forklift training programs complies with OSHA’s standards and helps operators earn their forklift certification online or in person.
Getting forklift certified is straightforward and affordable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
You might be wondering, is online OSHA forklift certification legit? The answer is yes—when it’s provided by an OSHA-compliant training provider.
Online courses allow workers to complete the theory portion at their own pace, which is perfect for busy schedules. However, OSHA requires that operators also complete a hands-on evaluation to finalize certification.
According to a 2022 research report by Safety+Health Magazine, companies that implemented hybrid (online + in-person) training saw a 37% decrease in forklift-related incidents within six months.
Reputable online programs—like those offered by Get OSHA Courses—ensure that your training is OSHA-compliant and recognized nationwide.
Operating a forklift without forklift certification can lead to devastating consequences. According to the CDC’s NIOSH, a large percentage of forklift accidents result from untrained or uncertified operators. The consequences include:
By ensuring all operators undergo forklift safety training, employers protect both people and profits.
Beyond compliance, forklift certification promotes a safer, more efficient workplace.
A Bureau of Labor Statistics report revealed that companies investing in continuous forklift operator training experienced 20% higher productivity and fewer machine-related incidents. Certified operators also tend to stay longer with employers, reducing turnover and improving team morale.
Moreover, forklift training supports environmental and safety initiatives. Explore in-depth about Environmental Safety and OSHA Compliance, a must-read for organizations building comprehensive safety programs.
Forklift certification isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a foundation for a safer, more productive workplace. With the right training, workers can operate forklifts confidently while employers meet OSHA regulations and avoid costly penalties. Whether you prefer classroom instruction or forklift certification online, choose OSHA-approved training that includes hands-on evaluation. For a deeper dive into company-wide safety strategies, explore courses at Get OSHA Courses today!
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