Forklifts and Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT)
Powered industrial trucks include forklifts, mobile elevated platform lifts, motorized hand trucks, pallet jacks and other specialized trucks powered by electric or internal combustion engines. Forklift operators must have classroom instruction and a hands-on evaluation to determine their competency.
How Do I.....?
Become Forklift Certified?
- Operators must be over 18 years of age
- Complete classroom training conducted by EHSS. Contact our Health and Safety Programs Coordinator if you or your group are in need of certification
- Complete and pass a Forklift Quiz
- Receive hands-on training and pass a skills course conducted by one of ISU's Certified Trainers. The completed evaluation shall be maintained per the operational unit's standard practices
- Once these three requirements are satisfied, the operator will receive a forklift certification card and Certificate of Completion that will be good for three years.
Maintain my certification?
- Operators must be re-evaluated at least once every three years
- When the operator is observed operating the forklift unsafely
- After a forklift accident or near-miss incident
- When the operator is assigned to a different type of forklift or classification of forklift
- When there is a change in the workplace that could affect the safe operation of a forklift
Become a qualified trainer?
Anyone can become a qualified trainer so long as they have the knowledge, training, and experience necessary to train others how to safely operate the PIT in the workplace. In general, the trainer should have practical skills and judgement to be able to operate the equipment safely in the workplace. The standard does not require that trainers operate a PIT regularly as part of their job function or responsibility.
Documents & Resources
Forklift Types and Classifications of PIT
