Driving a forklift is a challenging job. One mistake could lead to severe injury or even death.
That’s why it pays to have forklift certification before starting work, especially if you want to be considered for warehouse positions. You can get accreditation for free by taking the right training course.
What Is a Forklift?
A forklift is an industrial truck that can lift and transport heavy loads. It is equipment used in manufacturing, construction, and warehouse storage. In many ways, forklifts are similar to automobiles. They have controls that allow the driver to adjust forks up and down and angle them back and forth.
A counterweight attached to the rear of the forklift frame helps balance out its load and prevents the vehicle from tipping over. They are also equipped with a mast that is raised or lowered to reach different heights in warehouses and loading docks.
To operate a forklift, the operator must determine the load they will haul. Forklifts are classified based on their maximum load capacity, with some specialized forklifts designed for narrow spaces or with more excellent maneuverability, such as an articulated forklift. There are seven forklift classes, each with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards. The forklift operator must obtain a license to drive each type.
Why Do I Need a Forklift License?
Many employers require workers to have a forklift OSHA license and certification CA. Some states even mandate it, as is the case in New York. If workers don’t have it, they could be fined for violating workplace safety regulations.
Not only do employees without forklift licenses risk getting hurt, but they can also cost their company money. Companies can pay millions in lawsuits and lose future and present wages if their untrained operators cause an accident that results in injuries or death.
Another reason employers need to ensure their workers have a forklift license is because it makes them more marketable. The specialized skill set they have sets them apart from other candidates when applying for warehouse and manufacturing jobs. It also helps them make more money and feel confident in their abilities at work. It also becomes more transferable if they move to another state or city for a job.
How Can I Get a Forklift License?
A forklift license can help you land a job in New York’s warehouses and other industrial environments. The process of earning certification takes both classroom lectures and hands-on training with a trainer. The type of forklift you want to operate will determine which training program you need.
There are also online certification courses that let you study from home or anywhere else with an Internet connection. These courses often include reading material, video clips, and interactive exercises to help you learn and remember the information. They usually also feature end-of-section quizzes and a final exam.
However, if you take an online certification course, it’s important to remember that they can only train you and not fully certify you as a forklift operator. Your employer or a hired trainer is ultimately responsible for ensuring you can safely and competently operate forklifts under real-life working conditions. A certified evaluator must also observe you operating the forklift before signing off on your forklift license card.
Where Can I Get a Forklift License?
Forklift training courses are available in many places, including local schools and vocational colleges. Some companies also offer their own forklift training and certification courses for their employees.
The traditional method of gaining a forklift license involves attending classroom training and passing written tests. After completing the course, you are issued a certificate that can be used as proof of forklift certification.
Your forklift certificate will include your name, the date of training and evaluation, forklift type, and trainer/evaluator. The certificate must be presented to employers when applying for a forklift job or when requested by supervisors.
There are plenty of opportunities for people with a forklift license in New York, especially since the city is large and known as “the city that never sleeps.” Many warehouses use a mix of permanent and temporary employees to handle the influx of products in and out of the city at all hours of the day and night.