Many professionals enjoy operating equipment. Becoming a forklift driver is one of the easiest ways to get started. After all, they are present in nearly every warehousing or industrial environment. Plus, job opportunities are fairly plentiful.
However, to launch a career as a forklift operator, getting your forklift training certificate is a must. Usually, this is relatively simple, as it can be handled on a job site. But during COVID-19, that isn’t always an option.
Luckily, there’s an alternative. You can get certified without leaving home, all by completing your training online. If you want to find out why certification is important and how you can finish training without leaving home, here’s what you need to know.
The Importance of Forklift Certification
Some professionals might wonder why being forklift certified matters. Luckily, the answer is incredibly simple: the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires forklift operators to be certified.
Without a forklift certification, you technically aren’t eligible to operate a forklift on the job, even if your employer is a small company. Additionally, you need written authorization from your company, not just verbal confirmation, stating that you can operate the forklift.
The reason for the stringent requirements is mainly that forklifts are heavy equipment. Additionally, they can be incredibly dangerous, especially if the person driving it isn’t well trained or knowledgeable about how to use one properly.
Even after initial certification, forklift operators have to renew their certification every three years. That way, they can learn about any changes in operating procedures or safety standards.
Similarly, if a driver is in a forklift accident, is observed using one in an unsafe manner, or is working in an environment that undergoes a physical change, they have to do a renewal immediately. This ensures they have the right information at a time when it could be needed most.
Where to Get Forklift Training
Forklift training is actually available in a few ways. Traditionally, it’s handled in-person. An employee might be able to complete the course at a designated training facility or their employer’s location. It begins with classroom learning, and is followed by hands-on training.
However, in-person training isn’t the only option. There are online forklift certification training programs available, allowing professionals to handle the requirement without having to leave home.
How to Use Online Forklift Training Options
Online forklift certification can be a great alternative to in-person training. As long as the program is OSHA recognized and is valid in your state, it can be a viable approach.
There are two options for accessing online forklift training. First, a professional can choose to pay for it themselves, an approach that could be ideal for landing your first forklift job.
Second, employers can pay for online classes. With this, a company handles the cost of training and ensures the right team members get access to the coursework.
Once signed up, you access to class and review the material. Along the way, you’ll typically take quizzes or exams, showcasing that you understood what was covered.
In the end, if you pass the exam, you are certified. It’s that simple. You can move forward with your forklift operator career, as the major requirement is handled.
If you’d like to learn more about working as a forklift driver, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.
