WHAT DOES DRIVER TRAINING REALLY LOOK LIKE?
The safe, efficient, and productive operation of forklifts in your warehouse requires next-level training beyond just basic instruction. The safety of your personnel, equipment, and inventory depend on your employees getting the best training possible so they can do their job safely and to the best of their ability. Industry data indicates that forklift accidents account for nearly 35,000 serious injuries each year, not to mention nearly 62,000 non-serious injuries. Additionally, data from OSHA indicates that a majority of forklift accidents could be avoided if companies were more stringent about forklift operator training for their operators. In addition to improved safety and mitigation of risk, here are additional advantages of forklift operator training.
- Regulatory Compliance & Peace of Mind
Failure to comply with OSHA and ANSI regulations can result in serious legal exposure and subsequent liability issues. It can also put your employees at heightened risk for accidents and injury. Compliance is not only the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do, but surprisingly, General Requirements for All Machines is one of the OSHA’s most commonly cited violations. Proper training gives you the peace of mind and assurance of knowing you’re covered against any potential repercussions. - Increasing the Longevity of Your Forklifts and Other Equipment
If your forklift operators are properly trained, they’ll not only know how to prevent unnecessary, user-related wear and tear; they can also proactively spot maintenance issues before they become serious, costly problems. The average life of a forklift is generally between 10,000 and 20,000 hours. The difference between the shorter and longer end of this range very often relies on the maintenance it receives throughout its life. Proper forklift training should not only include simple operation; it should also include how to spot, prevent, and address common maintenance issues. - Increased Employee Confidence and Empowerment
Operators who receive the proper level of instruction can perform their job with increased assurance, confidence, and proficiency. This will increase morale among all of your staff, diminish the risk of accidents, and ensure safety. They will work every day knowing that they’re safe and respected at their workplace, which can make all the difference in their everyday and long-term job performance. - Improved Employee Productivity
When your employees are happier and more comfortable, they’re apt to perform their jobs better and more efficiently. Data compiled by HR Exchange Network indicates that 68 percent of employees say training and development is the company’s most important policy. Additional data indicates that 24 percent higher profit margins can be the result of companies who invest in training and that 40% of employees with poor training will leave the company within the first year.
Let Apex Be Your Training Partner
Whether you’re looking for comprehensive guidance or some additional supplemental training for forklift safety, Apex is ready to help. Our extensive training programs are led by experienced and qualified professionals and programs can be tailored to meet your operational needs. Our team is ready to assist you in ensuring your operators are properly ready to get behind the wheel. Call today to schedule forklift operator, aerial lift operator, or leaders training.
What You Can Expect from Apex Cos. Operator Training
- Classroom & hands-on training
- Driver operation
- Vehicle inspection
- Warehouse safety
- Electric & IC vehicle
- Class I – V Vehicles
- Individual, group & trainer sessions
Apex Operator Instructional Videos
Apex also offers general warehouse and rack safety training materials. Our video library is an excellent free resource with detailed instructional videos for operating forklifts related to different types of pallet racking systems. We offer both English and Spanish-translation videos.
