Pallet jacks, or in other areas of the world, they’re called pallet trucks, are compact tools that can easily fit into narrow corridors and tight spaces where ordinary forklift may not be able to fit.
These useful tools are effective in carrying and moving heavy loads in places where forklifts cannot navigate and do the job.
Even though they’re simple to use, they can be dangerous when used by an untrained worker.
But do workers who use pallet jacks need training? Yes, they do.
Receiving training is very important when using material-handling equipment to avoid accidents.
As stipulated in the in the 29 CFR 1910.178 Powered Industrial Regulation, the company is responsible for the provision of training to the workers who are using pallet jacks as part of their job responsibilities.
The component of the training course should be site-specific to address the current conditions of the workplace; and truck-specific as well, as there are many kinds of pallet jacks (electric, manual operated) – this is to cover the risk involved in using a pallet jack and to address the distinct characteristics of the kind of pallet jack the workers are using. Please see this letter of interpretation tackling this concern.
The course must consist of these elements: classroom lectures, hands-on training, and performance evaluation; upon successful assessment, the certification of training is to be given to successful workers.
At the end of the day, there’s one objective that must be attained - the workers must demonstrate that they can do the job safely and efficiently.
About Refresher Training
Taking refresher training is best recommended especially when workers developed bad habits and they were involved in an accident to make them realize their mistakes.
And since government legislations update every now and then, refresher training is an effective way to keep the workers up-to-date of any changes.
Refresher training is done every three, the more frequent it is, the better.
Here's Video of How to Take the Training
