The role of employers in providing forklift training in B.C.

Forklifts are powerful industrial machines and can be dangerous if operators are not properly trained. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHS) and the Workers Compensation Act, section 21, employers are responsible for providing workers with instruction and training. In British Columbia, workers do not need to be certified to operate a forklift, but they do need to be trained to the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards. 

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure the health and safety of their workers. This includes providing adequate training, supervision, and equipment for all tasks. Operating a forklift can be dangerous, and therefore, proper training must be provided to ensure the safety of the operator and those around them.

Employers have a responsibility to ensure that their workers are trained and competent in operating forklifts. This includes providing training and certification programs that meet the standards set by WorkSafeBC.

Forklift training programs should cover topics such as the safe operation of the equipment, pre-use inspections, and the proper handling of loads. Employers must also ensure that their workers are trained in the specific type of forklift they will be operating.

It is crucial that employers provide their workers with comprehensive training programs, as the consequences of improper forklift operation can be severe. Forklift accidents can result in serious injuries or even death, as well as damage to property and equipment.

Employers should also ensure that their workers are trained in the safe use of attachments, such as clamps and forks. It is important that workers understand the capacity of their forklift and the limitations of any attachments they use.

Employers must also ensure that their workers are aware of the hazards associated with forklift operations, such as the potential for tip-overs, collisions, and falls. Workers must be trained in how to respond to these hazards and how to prevent them from occurring.

In addition to providing initial forklift training in B.C., employers must also ensure that their workers receive ongoing training and education. This includes refresher courses and updates to the training program as new safety standards, and regulations are introduced.

Employers should also provide their workers with access to resources and information related to forklift safety. This can include safety checklists, posters, and other materials that reinforce safe practices and remind workers of potential hazards.

It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that their workers are trained and competent in operating forklifts. This includes providing comprehensive training programs, ongoing education and resources, and ensuring that workers are aware of the hazards associated with forklift operations. 

By providing proper training and education, employers can help to ensure the safety of their workers and prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. Clockwork Training offers forklift training covering classes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 7, covering counterbalance, narrow aisle, and rough terrain forklifts and other industrial equipment and machinery. Clockwork Training is a mobile business serving all of British Columbia. We come to your workplace to ensure that your workers are trained on the equipment they use daily. Contact us to learn more about our forklift training and other safety and equipment courses.