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Forklift Operator Competency Checklist

A comprehensive checklist used to assess and verify the skills, knowledge, and safe operating practices of forklift operators in various industrial settings.

Forklift Operator Competency Checklist
by: audit-now
4.7

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About This Checklist

The Forklift Operator Competency Checklist is an essential tool for ensuring workplace safety and compliance in industries that utilize forklifts. This comprehensive checklist addresses the critical need for assessing and verifying the skills and knowledge of forklift operators, thereby reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and equipment damage. By systematically evaluating operator competence, businesses can enhance productivity, maintain regulatory compliance, and create a safer work environment for all employees.

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Industry

Transportation and Logistics

Standard

OSHA 1910.178 - Powered Industrial Trucks

Workspaces

Warehouse
Distribution Center
Manufacturing Facilities

Occupations

Safety Manager
Warehouse Supervisor
Forklift Trainer
Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

1
Is the forklift operator certified according to OSHA standards?

Select the certification status of the forklift operator.

To ensure that all operators are compliant with safety regulations.
2
What is the maximum weight capacity of the forklift?

Enter the maximum weight capacity in pounds.

To ensure that the forklift is being used within its operational limits.
Min: 1000
Target: 2000
Max: 8000
3
Is the operator wearing required safety gear?

Indicate if the operator is wearing safety gear.

To ensure compliance with safety protocols.
4
Was the forklift inspected prior to use?

Select the inspection status.

To verify that safety inspections are conducted as required.
5
Please provide the training record for the operator.

Enter the details of the operator's training record.

To ensure that the operator has received adequate training.

6
Is there appropriate safety signage in the operational area?

Select the status of safety signage.

To ensure that safety protocols are clearly communicated to all personnel.
7
What is the enforced speed limit for forklift operation in the warehouse?

Enter the speed limit in miles per hour (mph).

To maintain safety and prevent accidents due to excessive speed.
Min: 1
Target: 5
Max: 10
8
Have all personnel received pedestrian awareness training?

Indicate if pedestrian awareness training has been conducted.

To ensure that all staff are aware of forklift operations and safety.
9
When was the last safety audit performed in the warehouse?

Enter the date of the last safety audit.

To track compliance and ensure regular safety evaluations.
10
Please provide details of any incidents involving forklifts in the past year.

Enter incident report details if applicable.

To analyze safety performance and identify areas for improvement.

11
Did the operator complete the daily safety check before operating the forklift?

Select the status of the daily check completion.

To ensure that operators are following safety protocols prior to operation.
12
How many hours has the forklift been operated since the last maintenance?

Enter the total operating hours.

To monitor usage and ensure timely maintenance to prevent accidents.
Min: 0
Target: 50
Max: 200
13
When was the last maintenance performed on the forklift?

Enter the date of the last maintenance.

To ensure that maintenance schedules are being adhered to.
14
Has the operator completed a safety training refresh in the last year?

Select the training refresh status.

To ensure operators are up to date with safety procedures.
15
Please provide any feedback from the operator regarding safety procedures.

Enter operator feedback if available.

To gather insights on the effectiveness of safety protocols.

16
Is the operator familiar with the emergency procedures for forklift operation?

Select the operator's familiarity with emergency procedures.

To ensure that operators are prepared for emergency situations.
17
What is the distance from the forklift operating area to the nearest pedestrian zone?

Enter the distance in feet.

To assess safety measures in place to protect pedestrians.
Min: 10
Target: 30
Max: 100
18
Are warning lights in use while the forklift is operating?

Indicate if warning lights are being used.

To ensure that proper safety measures are implemented to alert others of the forklift's operation.
19
When is the next scheduled safety training for operators?

Enter the date of the next scheduled safety training.

To ensure ongoing training and compliance with safety standards.
20
Please provide any suggestions for improving forklift safety in the warehouse.

Enter any safety improvement suggestions.

To encourage feedback and continuous improvement of safety practices.

21
Is the operator using the seatbelt while operating the forklift?

Select the seatbelt usage status.

To ensure compliance with safety regulations regarding operator safety.
22
What is the maximum height clearance in the area where the forklift operates?

Enter the height clearance in feet.

To prevent accidents related to insufficient clearance for the forklift.
Min: 8
Target: 12
Max: 20
23
Is there a traffic management plan in place for forklift operations?

Indicate if a traffic management plan exists.

To ensure that safe traffic flow is maintained in the warehouse.
24
When was the last safety review of the forklift operations conducted?

Enter the date of the last safety review.

To track the frequency of safety reviews and ensure compliance.
25
Please provide any comments from the operator regarding current safety practices.

Enter any operator comments.

To gather insights on safety practices from the operator's perspective.

FAQs

Safety managers, supervisors, and qualified trainers should use this checklist to assess forklift operators' skills and knowledge.

The checklist should be conducted initially for new operators, and then periodically (typically annually) or after any incidents involving forklift operation.

The checklist typically covers pre-operation inspections, operating skills, load handling, safety practices, and knowledge of workplace-specific procedures and hazards.

No, the checklist is a tool to assess competency and should be used in conjunction with formal training programs, not as a replacement.

Results can be used to identify areas for additional training, document operator qualifications, and make informed decisions about operator assignments and certifications.

Benefits

Ensures compliance with safety regulations and industry standards

Reduces the risk of workplace accidents and injuries

Improves overall operational efficiency and productivity

Helps identify training needs and areas for improvement

Provides documentation for liability protection and insurance purposes