Forklift and MEWP Certification: What Idaho Crews Need to Know
Operating heavy machinery is just another part of the job for many construction crews, but before an employee gets behind the controls of a forklift or climbs into a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), they’ll need the proper training.
OSHA requires employers to ensure their workers are trained to operate certain equipment. For employers, this means understanding what training is needed, keeping any records up to date, and making sure operators know how to avoid job site hazards.
Tates Rents offers forklift and MEWP certification training locally, helping Idaho crews build the skills they need to work safely and meet the training requirements.
Forklift Certification
All forklift operators must complete training and demonstrate that they can operate the equipment before using it. Under OSHA standards, training must include formal instruction, like a classroom environment, and practical exercises, followed by an evaluation. Classes generally include topics such as equipment operation, safe operating practices, evaluating workplace hazards, and more.
It’s important for employers to certify that any operators have completed their training and should have documentation that proves as much given that OSHA requires operators to be evaluated at least once every three years.
For businesses looking for forklift certification in Idaho, choosing a training program like Tates Rents’ which offers three-year OSHA compliant forklift certifications, and includes classroom and hands-on practice is an important step toward preparing employees for real-world job sites.
MEWP Training
MEWPs are commonly used to elevate workers for tasks like installation, construction, or maintenance. Equipment in this category includes boom lifts and scissor lifts.
Because working off the ground at a significant height can introduce additional hazards such as falling objects, or tipping over, operators need to understand how their equipment works and how to manage any of these risks.
OSHA requires aerial lift operators to be trained and authorized. Training should include equipment operation, inspections, load limits, and any hazards that come with the work environment. Employers themselves must also ensure workers are operating the equipment correctly as requirements can vary by the equipment type and work setting.
Tates Rents offers three-year OSHA/ANSI-compliant MEWP certification, combining classroom instruction and practical training to help operators understand safe equipment use, and workplace hazards.
How Often Does Certification Need to Be Renewed?
Forklifts: OSHA requires operators to be evaluated once every three years. Refresher training is also required when an operator is observed operating unsafely, is involved in an accident or near accident, receives a bad evaluation, is assigned to a different type of truck, or encounters relevant workplace changes.
MEWPs: OSHA does not establish the same three-year rule as it does forklifts. However, applicable industry standards, and training programs may set additional requirements.
Tates Rents offers three year-year certification programs for both forklifts and MEWPS, giving employers a local and convenient way to plan.
Whether you’re onboarding new employees, preparing for an upcoming project, or reviewing your team’s records, getting ahead of training can help reduce preventable risks and keep your projects on track.
For Idaho contractors and businesses looking for forklift or MEWP training, Tates Rents can help you take the next step towards a safer, more prepared crew.
Ready to Get Your Crew Trained? Contact us today to learn about available sessions and programs.