The Importance of Certified Operators on the Job Site

Having certified equipment operators on the job site can benefit your company in many ways. Operators that have proper training on the equipment they operate are not only safer, but can help your bottom line through increased productivity. They account for more efficient shifts and less time and money lost. When you make safety and training a top priority, your company will attract and retain quality employees.

Your company can limit its exposure to workplace hazards when your crew of workers are trained on machine maintenance, proper operation and safety practices. This can significantly reduce or eliminate on-site accidents and injuries while keeping group health insurance costs low. Below are just a few benefits to offering proper equipment training.

Certification

Having professional certification for heavy equipment operators ensures best-practice methods are familiar to your crew. When operators receive certification that meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, this can potentially lower your company’s insurance costs.

Better Employees & Boosted Performance

Companies that offer equipment training present a competitive edge when attracting skilled equipment operators. Employees appreciate companies that make safety and machine knowledge a top priority. This usually results in better machine care, fewer mistakes, and a higher quality product.

Shafer Equipment Company can provide your company with the training services and resources it needs to give your employees the tools they need to do their job more effectively. For more information on training services offered click here.

The Top 5 Forklift-Related OSHA Violations

Unsafe Operation

Some of the most common reasons for a citation are driving with an elevated load, driving too fast and too close to platform edges, and not following loading dock safety procedures.

Failure to Provide Refresher Training

Forklift operators must receive refresher training every three years or sooner if they are involved in an accident, or when reported for reckless behavior. Forklift operators may also require additional training when asked to operate a different class of forklift, or if changes in the workplace have introduced new hazards.

Missing or Inadequate Operator Certification

All forklift operators must have an OSHA-approved forklift certification for the class of forklift they operate.

Failure to Remove Unsafe Forklifts From Service

Whenever a forklift is found to be defective, in need of repair, or in any way unsafe, the forklift must be taken out of service until it is restored to a safe operating condition.

No Pre-Operation Inspection

All forklifts must undergo inspection to ensure the safety of the operator and detect minor issues before they become expensive repairs.