Operating powered forklift trucks doesn’t have to be rocket science, but it does require an operator who is skilled and certified to drive it correctly. This is also true, according to the OSHA standards.

OSHA gathers data every year about fatalities, accidents, and their major causes in workplaces. Powered industrial trucks, including forklifts, are in the list of the top ten most frequently cited OSHA standards violated in the fiscal year 2018 that involve injuries and deaths.

So, in order to avoid severe accidents and injuries, you need to complete the forklift training course before you begin industrial work. The forklift training course takes written tests after formal lectures based on safety, functionality, and good working practice when operating a lift. An operator has to pass this test to grant a forklift certificate.

Of course, the criteria would be different depending on the forklift type you operate. Further, forklift training will help you gain skills in driving more complex machinery and help increase the chances of a safer and more efficient work environment.

Here’s everything you need to know about forklift training test:

Eligibility Requirements as a Forklift Operator:

• Operating forklifts demands an operator to be physically fit, as it requires strength and effort.
• Ability to follow the supervisor’s written and verbal instructions.
• The operator must understand the responsibility of the safety of their own and the people around them always comes first.
• The operator must be attentive and follow the entire forklift training precisely. 
• They must possess basic quantitative abilities to estimate lifting height, make load calculations, and covered distances.
• They must be comfortable working safely and efficiently in a highly-engaged production environment.

Forklift Training Requirements

OSHA requires employers to ensure that every forklift driver is competent to operate a lift safely, after the successful completion of training and test.

The Forklift training includes formal instruction, a forklift test assessing the trainee’s performance, and practical training. Further, it is a combination of written training and testing, visual instruction, in-person practical instruction, and computer learning. The training covers both workplace-related and truck-related topics to be compliant with OSHA regulations. The two categories include the following sub-topics:

 Workplace-Related Sub-Topics:

• Load stability
• Load stacking and unstacking
• Different work conditions
• Load handling and manipulation
• Navigating narrow aisles and tight spaces
• Working in pedestrian areas and closed environments

 Truck-Related Sub-Topics:

• Operating instructions.
• Forklift and workplace precautions.
• Forklift controls and instrumentation
• Engine or motor operation
• Operator visibility
• Steering and maneuvering
• Vehicle capacity and stability
• Fork attachments and uses
• Differences between the forklift and automobile

Tips to Pass the Forklift Written Test

In order to pass the forklift written and practical test, the operators need to understand OSHA guidelines, safety regulations, and other crucial training information. 

 Here are some questions you may find in your test:

• Is there any limit to lifting heavy loads by the forklift? Yes or No
• Is daily inspection is mandated by OSHA before commencing work?
• When should you report your supervisor if you come across a safety hazard? 
• If the overload blocks the sight of the operator, could he simply sound the horn while reversing rather than activating the backing alarm? Yes or No

These might not be the actual questions you’ll find in the forklift test, but this gives you an idea of what to expect. Further, some of the questions might involve the following subjects on your forklift training test:

• Maximum load capacities
• Forklift maintenance
• Proper operating speeds
• Eliminating blind spots and many more

Conclusion

Armed with the knowledge of professionals, you would be feeling more confident after completing the forklift training course. Make sure to pay attention during the course, and you will master the field in no time!