Inside vs. outside trainers

The OSHA requirement to provide site and equipment-specific forklift operator training puts a burden on many employers, who previously handled their training off-site with an outside trainer.

Unless an outsourced trainer could accurately reproduce the same conditions found in the employer’s workplace (load, terrain, storage and stacking of product, operating environment, etc.), the training performed would not meet the OSHA standard. Then there are the specific issues concerning the forklift: type, classification, attachments, fueling, charging, etc.

Reputable outside training providers must be familiar with the operating conditions and equipment at the site as well as any in-house policies and/or operating procedures to provide training that satisfies the OSHA requirements. Then they must insert this information into the class and ensure that everyone understands it.

Many employers choose the option of having their own people trained as instructors to conduct in-house operator training. This effectively addresses the issues of providing site and equipment-specific training because the employee who conducts the training is familiar with the machinery and working conditions that no outside trainer could match. It also addresses the issue of the trainer’s competence, which is significant in light of the OSHA standard.