Forklift Certification & Safety

Jul 15 / Erin Ford

We’ve all seen the videos of forklift antics and fails across the internet. And while many of these videos can be funny, there are also plenty that are quite scary and leave you wondering just how much time the driver spent in the hospital. 

OSHA reports that each year, forklift accidents result in nearly 100 deaths and thousands of severe injuries that keep employees out of work for days.  It’s easy to forget that these silly-looking machines can be so dangerous. Which is why Forklift Certification and overall safety are so important. 


What is Forklift Certification?

Forklift certification is all about learning how to safely and properly use a forklift on the job. It includes training and a quick evaluation to make sure you know what you're doing. In the U.S., it's not just a good idea — it's actually required by law under OSHA rules (specifically, 29 CFR 1910.178).


Who Needs to be Certified?

Any employee who operates a forklift in the workplace, regardless of experience, must be certified. This applies to industries such as:

  • Warehousing
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Retail and logistics


How Do I Get Certified?

OSHA requires a two-step process to get forklift certified.  

  1. Complete a theory course so that you know how and why the machines work and what they can do when not operated correctly. (We offer the theory course here for $49)

  2. Complete an in-person training/evaluation with a qualified forklift instructor.
  • This is usually done at your job by a supervisor or fellow employee, though there are forklift schools who can offer it.
  • Once completed, your trainer will sign off on your certification card, so don’t lose it!


NOTE: Forklift certifications only last three years, after which the above process must be repeated to renew your certification.

Is all of this really necessary?

Absolutely! Forklift accidents pose serious risks. Not just to the driver and people nearby, but also to the equipment, property, and merchandise. Between medical bills, repairs, and restocking, a single forklift accident can cost a company up to $150,000! One violation could be enough to shut down a small business, which might mean you lose your job—even if you had nothing to do with the accident. 
We get it—these sort of regulations and trainings can sometimes feel like they just exist to protect the company or its insurance from lawsuits and fines. And in a way, that’s partly true. But those rules, and your right to hold companies accountable, are what push them to keep you safe. And when you stay safe, everyone wins.

So How Can I Stay Safe?

Do:

  • Always wear appropriate safety gear and PPE for the type of forklift you’re using and the environment you’re working in.
  • Keep all your body parts inside the cab while you’re operating the forklift.
  • Know your machine, the materials you’re moving, and the area that you’re working in.
  • Keep loads low and drive slowly when moving loads on the forks.
  • Put the machine in neutral, turn it off, engage the emergency brake, and chock wheels when not being driven.
  • Use extra caution around loading docks and high traffic areas.
  • Only carry materials and loads that your machine is rated for.

Don't:

  • Operate a machine that isn’t in perfect working order or use forks that show any signs of damage.
  • Let anyone ride in the cab with you or on the forks while you’re driving.
  • Drive with your load in the air since it makes it easier to tip over.
  • Drive fast or take sharp turns.
  • Let anyone walk under a raised load, and don’t walk under one yourself.
  • Take short cuts or skip safety checks to get the job done faster

Want to get Certified?