Forklift Certification in Oregon

In Oregon, forklift certification must be conducted before an employer allowed their forklift drivers to use forklift machinery. New operators before getting hired must be certified first. Now if you are serious about pursuing employment in this field and you want to add forklift certification as one of the credentials in your resume, then this tutorial is right for you.

We’ve listed down the steps you need to follow in order to apply for forklift certification in Oregon. You can read on:

Steps to Take When Applying for Forklift Certification

1. Identify your training needs – there are many kinds of forklift trucks: the stand-up, sit down, electric pallet, electric riding pallet, combustion engine, all-terrain, and many others. You must determine what type of truck you are planning to use because the training course should be specific to the type of forklift.
   
   
2. If you’ve decided on what training you need, you can now enroll in the course. The list of schools where you can enroll in Oregon is mentioned below for your reference.
   
   
3. OSHA states that training courses should include formal and practical training and an evaluation. Attend the formal classroom lecture which is a 4-5 hour session. At the lecture, the trainer will teach about forklift control basics, operational fundamentals, pre-operation check, load limit calculation, the center of gravity and stability, fueling practice, battery recharging, OSHA rules, workplace inspection, accident prevention, analyzing hazards, and other subjects that may be deemed necessary.
   
   
4. Practical hands-on training is next. The type of forklift an operator will be using during this part will depend on what he applied for the course. The trainer will directly supervise the training. At this stage, trainees will be given assignments like operational checks, maneuvering on obstacles, loading/unloading, stacking of materials at height, pallet arrangement, post-operation check, proper parking, and many others. During this evaluation, trainees are assessed to ensure that they’ve gained competency levels in safety and properly driving forklifts.
   
   
5. The final stage is written examination and skill assessment. The trainees must get ratings of at least 75%. The passing grade may vary depending on the standards set forth by the school or trainer.
   
   
6. Successful trainees will be issued certification and license cards. The forklift certification is valid for three years.
   
   
7. When do you need recertification? We’ve listed done circumstances when you need to take recertification, please refer below.

Here's a complete details, read this: How to Become Fully Forklift Certified

 Tips for Passing the Forklift Certification Test

A. Providing helpful tips and strategies to prepare for and pass the certification test

Understand the Material: Make sure you thoroughly understand the training material provided during the certification course. This includes theoretical knowledge about forklift operation, as well as practical skills.

• Practice Regularly: Like any skill, practice is key. If you have access to a forklift, use it regularly to get comfortable with the controls.
  
  
• Study Safety Protocols: A significant portion of the test will focus on safety protocols. Make sure you are clear on all the necessary safety procedures and precautions.
  
  
• Rest Well Before the Test: Ensure you are well-rested on the day of the test. A clear mind will help you remember the material and perform well during the practical assessment.
  
  
• Stay Calm: Test anxiety can negatively affect your performance. Stay calm and remember that the test is designed to ensure you can operate a forklift safely, not to trick you or make you fail.

B. Resources for additional study and practice

• OSHA Website: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has plenty of resources related to forklift operation and safety. Their guidelines can provide valuable information to help you prepare for the test.
  
  
• Forklift Certification Study Guides: There are numerous study guides available online that can help you review the material and practice for the test.
  
  
• Online Videos: Watching videos can be a great way to learn and review the practical skills required to operate a forklift. YouTube, for example, has many instructional videos on forklift operation.
  
  
• Practice Tests: Taking practice tests can help you familiarize yourself with the format of the test and the kind of questions that might be asked.
  
  
• On-site Training: If possible, on-site training with an experienced forklift operator can be incredibly helpful. They can provide hands-on guidance and tips, which can be invaluable for passing the practical portion of the test.

Remember, the goal of the certification test is to ensure you can operate a forklift safely and effectively. The best way to pass is to genuinely understand and apply the principles of safe forklift operation.

Forklift Training Schools in Oregon

These schools are great places to get your certification. They’re equipped with facilities and approved trainers plus they set their own standard geared toward compliance with OSHA rulings.

• OVERTON Safety Training (OST) - 1623 SE Enterprise Circle, Hillsboro, OR 97123, Telephone: (503) 356-0403, Toll Free: (866) 531-0403
• Norlift of Oregon, Inc. - 7373 SE Milwaukie Expressway, Portland, OR 97222, Phone (503) 659-5438, Toll Free (800) 452-0050
• Affordable Safety Training LLC - 2632 SE 25th Ave, STE G, Portland, OR 97202, PHONE 888-213-0432
• NW Lift Truck Service, Inc. - 13691 N.E. Whitaker Way, Portland, OR. 97230, Tel: 503-256-8580
• Leavitt Machinery - 9585 SW Tualatin Sherwood, Tualatin, OR 97062, Ph: (503) 691-1430, Fx: (503) 691-2765
• The Northwest College of Construction - 8111 NE Holman Street, Portland, Call 503-256-7300, (503) 256-7300
• D2000 Safety, Inc. - P.O. Box 2939, Eugene, Phone: 541-284-2000, Toll free: 800-551-8763
• Raymond Handling Concepts - 3148 NE 181st Ave., Portland, Toll Free: 1-888-610-6611, Phone: 1-503-408-1000
• United Rentals - 3362 Silverton Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301, 503-393-1222
• Forklift Services of Oregon - 13805 N.E. Sandy Blvd., Portland, (503) 287-6700
• Safety First Oregon - 503-618-1980
• SE Works - 7916 SE Foster Road, Portland, Phone: (503) 772-2300
• All American First Aid - 16055 SW Walker Rd#196, Portland, OR, (503)-277-0563
• Associated General Contractors, Oregon-Columbia Chapter - 9450 S.W. Commerce Circle, Suite 200, Wilsonville, (503) 682-3363 & (800) 826-6610
• Central Oregon Community College - 2600 N.W. College Way, Bend, Oregon 97703, (541)-383-7700
• Linn-Benton Community College - 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, Oregon 97321, (541) 917 4999
• Umpqua Community College - 1140 Umpqua College Rd., Roseburg, OR 97470, 541-440-4600
• Oregon State University - Corvallis, Phone: 541-737-2273
• Rogue Community College - 3345 Redwood Hwy, Grants Pass, OR 97527

If you are an employer who is looking for certification for your forklift operators, you have the choice to contact these schools to request for on-site training. Training schools can send their accredited trainer to your location.

For individuals who are seeking forklift certification, these schools can offer you professional training at a cost ranging from $100 to $500.

Forklift Certification Requirements

• The trainee must be at the legal age of 18. Present ID to confirm age.
• Completed high school or in possession of a GED certificate
• Must bring a valid state driver's license or state card
• Must be proper training attire (the wearing of steel-toe shoes, hard hats, vest, pants, and other PPE is recommended)
• Must physically fit since the nature of the job requires it.

Read these article: 

• How Much Does It Cost You To Get Forklift License?
• How Long Does It Take To Take the Training
• Is Online Forklift Certification Right For You

Who Must Take Forklift Re-Certification Training

• An operator’s evaluation must be done every three years to validate the ability to safely drive a forklift truck, this is being conducted in the refresher course. The employer shall be responsible for the provision of the refresher course either on-site or at any location that resembles warehouse working conditions.
• Refresher course is also given to those operators who committed unsafe acts driving forklifts. When operators were involved in accidents like near misses or property damage incidents, they should undergo refresher courses as well.
• A Refresher course is also being administered for those operators who are assigned to operate different forklift trucks they’re unfamiliar with its use. The course is also given when there’s a change in workplace conditions, and weather patterns and is designed to work in confined space areas.

Importance of Having the Certification

Having a forklift certification in Oregon, as well as in other states, is crucial for various reasons. The importance of obtaining a forklift certification can be summarized in the following points:

• Compliance with OSHA regulations: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all forklift operators in the United States to be properly trained and certified. Obtaining a forklift certification in Oregon ensures that you are in compliance with these regulations and avoid potential fines or penalties.
  
  
• Ensuring workplace safety: Proper training and certification helps to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries associated with forklift operation. Certified operators are more knowledgeable about safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and proper operation techniques, which contribute to a safer work environment.
  
  
• Increasing productivity: A certified forklift operator is more likely to be efficient and skilled in their work, ultimately leading to increased productivity. Proper training can also reduce equipment downtime due to improper use or maintenance.
  
  
• Reducing liability and insurance costs: Companies that employ certified forklift operators are less likely to face liability issues and may enjoy lower insurance premiums, as these operators are better equipped to prevent accidents and injuries.
  
  
• Enhancing employability and career advancement: A forklift certification can increase your employability and make you a more attractive candidate for jobs that require forklift operation. Additionally, it can open up opportunities for career advancement, such as supervisory or management positions in warehousing and logistics.
  
  
• Promoting a culture of safety: A workforce that includes certified forklift operators fosters a culture of safety within an organization. This commitment to safety can boost employee morale and help establish a positive reputation for the company.

Obtaining a forklift certification is important for compliance with OSHA regulations, ensuring workplace safety, increasing productivity, reducing liability and insurance costs, enhancing employability and career advancement, and promoting a culture of safety within an organization.

Salary of Licensed Forklift Driver in Oregon

The salary of a certified forklift driver in the state of Oregon is $40,458 on average per year. If an operator is certified to handle many types of forklift trucks, he can request a higher hourly wage. The closest state of Idaho has a much lower wage.

In the latest February 27, 2023 report of Salary.com, these cities offer the competitive salary for forklift operators:

An experienced forklift driver can be promoted to become an in-house trainer if he can prove his worth to the company and his expertise in his work.

Job Outlook of Forklift Operator in Oregon

Forklift operators are critical in numerous industries such as construction, manufacturing, and warehousing. In general, these sectors have shown consistent growth and are expected to continue growing, leading to a steady demand for skilled forklift operators.

As e-commerce continues to expand, there will likely be an increased need for forklift operators in warehouses and distribution centers to manage inventory and ensure timely delivery of goods.

This trend may particularly impact job prospects in regions with significant warehousing or shipping hubs.

Additionally, the job outlook for forklift operators can also be influenced by the overall economic conditions. When the economy is strong and businesses are growing, there's typically more demand for forklift operators to help move goods in various sectors. Conversely, during economic downturns, job opportunities may decrease.

Despite these general trends, it's important to note that the job outlook can vary significantly by location and specific industry.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you would want to look at local job postings, talk to local employment agencies, or consult recent labor market data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the state labor department.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies forklift operators under "Material Moving Workers, All Other," so it may be helpful to look at data for this broader category.

Governing Authorities:

If you have questions related to forklift certification, occupational safety and health standards, workers’ wages and benefits, or you have complaints, you may contact the concerning agency:

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division
P.O. Box 14480
350 Winter St. NE, Rm. 430
Salem, OR 97309-0405
(503) 378-3272

Oregon Employment Department
119 N Oakdale Ave, Medford, OR 97501, United States
+1 541-776-6060

Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries
800 NE Oregon St., Suite 1045
Portland 97232
971-673-0761

Cities of OR

Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, Hillsboro, Beaverton, Bend, Medford, Springfield, Corvallis, Albany, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Keizer, Grants Pass, McMinnville, Oregon, Redmond, Tualatin, West Linn, Woodburn, Newberg, Roseburg, Forest Grove, Klamath Falls, Milwaukie, Ashland, Wilsonville, Sherwood, Central Point, Hermiston, Pendleton, Coos Bay, Troutdale, Canby, Lebanon, Dallas, Happy Valley, The Dalles, La Grande, St. Helens, Cornelius,Gladstone, Ontario, Damascus, Newport, Baker, North Bend, Cottage Grove, Sandy, Monmouth, Astoria, Prineville, Silverton, Sweet Home, Fairview , Independence, Eagle Point, Florence, Molalla, Lincoln, Sutherlin, Stayton, Hood River, Milton-Freewater, Umatilla, Scappoose, Seaside, Brookings, Sheridan, Talent, Madras, Junction, Winston, Creswell, Warrenton, Tillamook, Philomath, Veneta, Phoenix, Reedsport, Wood Village, Coquille, Lafayette, Aumsville, Harrisburg, Toledo, Myrtle Creek, Mount Angel, Nyssa, Boardman, Oakridge, Hubbard, Dundee, King, Jefferson, Bandon, Shady Cove, Burns, Jacksonville, Estacada, Sublimity, Dayton, Myrtle Point, Gervais, Lakeview town, Gold Beach, Vernonia, Rogue River, Union, Stanfield, Sisters, Waldport, Willamina, Carlton