Obtaining Your Forklift Certification: A Comprehensive Guide

Forklift operation is a critical skill in many industries like warehousing, construction, and shipping. Despite the coolness of maneuvering these powerful machines, safety cannot be underestimated. This is where forklift certification comes in. But ‘how do you get forklift certified?’.

Here is a step-by-step guide to becoming a certified forklift operator:

Understand Why Certification is Important

The first step in getting any certification is understanding its importance and in this case, the significance of becoming a certified forklift operator. This certification is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure that all forklift operators are competent to operate forklifts safely.

Enroll in a Forklift Training Program

The first tangible step to obtaining a certificate is to find a legitimate, OSHA-approved forklift training program. These programs offer comprehensive theoretical and practical training. The best part is these programs are widely available and can be completed in a relatively short time, sometimes in just a day or two.

Complete the Classroom Training

The theoretical part of the forklift training program involves classroom or online learning, where you learn about the different types of forklifts, their components, and their operation, and most importantly learn all about forklift safety protocols.

Undertake Practical Training

After the classroom learning, it’s time to get hands-on experience. You have to operate a forklift under the direct supervision of an experienced, certified trainer. The idea is to familiarize yourself with the navigation and handling of the forklift.

Pass a Written and Practical Test

Finally, after a sufficient number of training hours, you will need to pass a written test that covers everything you learned in the classroom. You also need to pass a practical test where you demonstrate your skills in operating a forklift.

Receive Your Forklift Certificate

Once you’ve passed the tests, congratulations! You are now a certified forklift operator. You will receive a certificate and operator card, which you can use to get forklift jobs. Keep in mind, the certification is usually valid for three years.

It’s also important to remember that forklift operation isn’t a one-time learning experience. Periodic training is required to update skills based on changes in technology and safety procedures.

Now, with forklift certification, you become more valuable to your current employer or potential employers. Indeed, it is also more likely that you can negotiate for a better pay. You will be surprised at how a certification can leverage your overall job package. To give you a practical perspective, according to a recent survey, the average forklift hire Sydney price saw an increase when the operator was certified.

In conclusion, obtaining your forklift certification includes understanding why it’s important, enrolling in training, completing both the theoretical and practical education, passing a written and practical test, and finally receiving your forklift certificate. So, get certified today and give your career a lift!