Operating a forklift safely takes more than skill — it takes knowledge, awareness, and confidence. That’s why Thompson & Johnson’s Forklift Operator Safety Training is designed to give operators the tools they need to stay safe, efficient, and OSHA-compliant.
Whether you’re a new operator or due for recertification, here are 10 essential things you’ll learn in our comprehensive forklift training program:
1. OSHA Rules and Operator Responsibilities
You’ll start by learning about OSHA’s forklift safety standards and your role as an operator. This includes understanding what OSHA requires for training, inspections, and reporting, along with your responsibilities to maintain a safe workplace.
Our certified trainers explain the “why” behind every rule — helping you connect compliance with real-world safety.
2. Understanding Your Forklift
Each forklift model operates differently. You’ll get familiar with your specific equipment — from counterbalance forklifts to reach trucks and pallet jacks — including control layouts, steering systems, and safety features.
Knowing your machine inside and out helps prevent misuse and accidents.
3. Daily Inspection and Maintenance
A forklift should never start a shift without a proper pre-operation inspection. In this module, you’ll learn to check brakes, tires, hydraulics, seatbelts, and more.
You’ll also learn how to document and report issues so your equipment remains safe and reliable.
💡 Tip: Download our Forklift Pre-Shift Inspection Checklist for quick reference.
4. Load Handling and Stability
Improper load handling is one of the most common causes of forklift accidents. We teach operators how to calculate load centers, understand the stability triangle, and balance loads safely.
You’ll practice lifting, traveling, and stacking techniques that keep you in control and your workplace safe.
5. Safe Operating Practices
In this section, operators learn the golden rules of forklift operation:
- Maintain safe travel speeds
- Observe clear visibility and right-of-way
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles
- Operate cautiously on ramps and uneven surfaces
Our certified trainers use real-world examples to show how these habits prevent accidents and product damage.
6. Working Safely Around Pedestrians
Forklift and pedestrian safety go hand-in-hand. You’ll learn communication signals, horn use, and visibility techniques to protect people walking nearby.
From warehouses to loading docks, situational awareness is one of the most valuable skills you’ll develop in our training.
7. Refueling and Battery Charging Safety
Depending on your equipment, you’ll learn the right way to handle propane, diesel, gas, or electric forklifts.
We cover:
- Proper refueling and ventilation
- Safe battery charging and maintenance
- PPE requirements
- Emergency response procedures
Safety around fuel and electricity can prevent fires, explosions, and injuries.
8. Parking and Shutdown Procedures
At the end of every shift, safety still matters. You’ll learn proper parking and shutdown procedures — including lowering the forks, setting the brake, turning off the power, and parking in designated areas.
It’s a simple step that keeps others safe and protects your equipment.
9. How to Handle Accidents and Near Misses
If something goes wrong, knowing what to do next is crucial. You’ll learn how to respond to incidents, notify supervisors, and document reports properly.
We also discuss the importance of reporting “near misses” — because they’re opportunities to prevent future accidents.
10. Hands-On Practice and Evaluation
The best way to learn is by doing. After classroom instruction, you’ll get hands-on forklift experience under the supervision of a certified instructor.
You’ll demonstrate safe operation, load handling, and maneuvering before completing your final performance evaluation to earn your certification.
Why Choose Thompson & Johnson for Forklift Operator Safety Training?
At Thompson & Johnson, our certified instructors bring real-world experience to every class. We offer both on-site training at your facility and in-branch sessions at any of our four locations across New York State: Syracuse, Binghamton, Horseheads and Schenectady.
Our program helps your business:
✅ Stay OSHA compliant
✅ Reduce workplace accidents
✅ Lower equipment repair costs
✅ Boost productivity and confidence
Schedule Your Forklift Safety Training
Ensure your team is trained, certified, and safe on the job. Contact our Safety Training Department today to schedule your next forklift operator class.
📞 Call: (800) 589-5558
📧 Email: training@thompsonandjohnson.com
🌐 Learn more: https://thompsonandjohnson.com/our-services/training/
