Forklift Operation Re-Certification

In keeping with our dedication of continuing education in training and safety of our employees we recently conducted our third class on forklift operations.

The class consisting of two parts, is aimed at keeping our forklift operators up to speed on safety and training operations. The operators first attend class room teaching and then hands on training followed by a written exam which they need to score a minimum of 70% to pass. Then in phase two of the class the men need to successfully maneuver an obstacle course to finish the class.

	Topics covered in the class: Forklift Safety and History – All OSHA standards are discussed about forklift operations and training. Stability Triangle – The center of gravity of the forklift to keep the forklift from turning over. Center of Load – The proper way to approach and lift a pallet of material to keep it from falling off the forklift. Job specific topics – Looking out for traffic, people and other trades while operating the forklift. Weight of dry wall – Calculating the weight of the drywall the operator is picking up to ensure forklift safety. Speed limits – While operating a forklift most jobs have a limit of under 5mph to keep a forklift from tipping over while turning and to keep the load stable, at Marek Brothers the men are taught to keep it at 3mph. Using the horn – For backing up and blind corners. Video on Forklift Safety – Watching a video on high impact forklift training and operations including several examples of forklifts turning over. Once all of these topics are covered the employees are required to take a two-part exam. Part one is multiple choice, and Part two is true / false. After the written part of the class is finished our employees must pass the Obstacle Course.

Ray Perez instructs the operators on what
to look for during pre-inspection.

Willie Powell instructing Anthony Robinson.

Alfredo Ibarra training Chris Harmon on forklift
operations.

The Obstacle Course consists of four different parts:

Pre use Inspection – Checking the condition of the forklift, check for leaks, debris under the forklift, and the condition of the tires, also checking the name plate identification for type and capacity.
Proper way to mount and dismount forklift – 3 point system of contact, always have 3 points of contact with your hands and feet, safety for ladders, and forklifts.
Maneuver through pylons – The men must drive the forklift through a series of pylons with out making contact with any of them, this is a Pass / Fail test.
Horn use - The operator practices the use of the horn while maneuvering through the obstacle course.