Forklift Training

11dls55

When doing the three year forklift operation re-test and evaluation, I was under the understanding that the associate would only have to take a written test as long as they were observed operating the forklift in a safe and proper manner.  Am I correct?

regdunlop

here's the osha reg:

 

1910.178(l)(4)(i)

Refresher training, including an evaluation of the effectiveness of
that training, shall be conducted as required by paragraph (l)(4)(ii) to ensure
that the operator has the knowledge and skills needed to operate the powered
industrial truck safely.

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)

Refresher training in relevant topics shall be provided to the
operator when:

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)(A)

The operator has been observed to operate the vehicle in an unsafe
manner;

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)(B)

The operator has been involved in an accident or near-miss
incident;

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)(C)

The operator has received an evaluation that reveals that the
operator is not operating the truck safely;

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)(D)

The operator is assigned to drive a different type of truck;
or

1910.178(l)(4)(ii)(E)

A condition in the workplace changes in a manner that could affect
safe operation of the truck.

1910.178(l)(4)(iii)

An evaluation of each powered industrial truck operator's
performance shall be conducted at least once every three years.

 

11dls55

Thanks for your response.  I am familiar with the reg; what I'm not sure about is if the evaluation must include a maneuverability test.

regdunlop

i found this under osha's FAQs but you may want to go to the safety forum to ask your question because someone there will know more about this topic than i do: http://community.blr.com/safety/forums/ ;

 

15. How do I evaluate my employee’s competency to operate a
truck safely?

Evaluation of an operator’s performance can be
determined by a number of ways, such as:

• a discussion with the employee
  
• an observation of the employee operating the powered industrial truck
  
• written documentation of previous training
  
• a performance test

 

 http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/ote/trng-materials/pit/pit_q-a.html ;

11dls55

Thanks.