If you are an individual, getting a certification is the very first step to take if you are planning to work as a forklift operator in Alabama. While employer is also required to have the same for their workers.
Both employer and individual have the obligation to meet the requirement set forth by OSHA in their 29 CFR 1910.178 regulation.
Taking the forklift safety training is not only essential in keeping safety in the workplace but it is also an act of compliance with the law.
There are ways to receive the training and that what we are going to discuss in this article.
Ways to Take the Certification Course
Attending the company-sponsored training
If you are an employer and you are looking to get your workers certified, you can appoint someone from your fleet who can deliver the training course on-site instead of sending the operators to the school.
You will need teaching materials to do so. You can purchase this from Amazon: Forklift Certification Training Kit - 100% OSHA Compliant Forklift Operator COMPLETE Training With Certificates Of Completion, Operator Cards, Student Hand Outs, Evaluation Checklists & More!
Doing so can save you a lot of time and money. Remember it is the responsibility of the company to provide such training.
Enrolling in a program offered by a school
There are forklift training schools in Alabama where you can take the course from, see below list. If you are still a beginner, enrolling in their program has a definite advantage. You get the focus and attention to be trained in the safe operation.
It doesn’t take long to finish the course, it only takes a day or maximum of two days to complete such a course. The training is a straightforward process, easy to comprehend. If you are wondering how the training is being conducted, here are the steps:
How to Take the Training Course
- Attend the Classroom Training – the class usually runs for about 4-6 hours.
- Take the Written Test – to measure the knowledge you’ve gained from the classroom, the instructor may administer a written test.
- Attend the practical exercises – it focuses on actual operating procedures such as driving and maneuvering, physical inspection, loading and unloading, transporting loads, picking laden pallet, refueling/recharging, etc.
- Get your performance evaluated – evaluation is important to determine your practical skills learned from the exercise, this is where the instructor will rate your driving skill. Make the instructor satisfied with your performance, you are withed of passing the course.
- Received your certificate or license – If you’re successful in both tests, you will receive your certificate at the end of the course. Congratulations, you are now certified!
READ these to help you pass the training exams:
Here are more vital topics you need to understand, READ these:
- Common Question: Workers is Injured While Driving Forklift During His Duty, Is His Employer Liable?
- Can You Still Use Your Forklift Certification When Transferring to Another Employer (in Other State)?
- How to Get Certified Driving the Forklift?
- Where to Get Certified Operating the Forklift?
- How to Choose the Best Forklift School to Get Quality Training?
- What are the Requirements You Need?
- How Much Will It Cost You?
- How Long is the Training?
Forklift Training Schools in Alabama
- Thompson Lift Truck
2401 Pinson Highway, Birmingham, AL 35217
Toll-Free 1-833-271-0972 - The Onin Group
800 Powder Plant Road, Bessemer, AL 35022
Phone: 205-649-8100 - R and M Equipment Rentals
2329 29th Ave. North Birmingham, AL 35207
Phone: 800.700.0990 - Forklift Systems Incorporated
132 West Park Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: 205-583-1188 - Alabama Robotics Technology Park
6505 U.S. Hwy 31, Tanner, AL 35671
Phone: 256-642-2600 - Alabama Technology Network
135 S. Union Street, Suite 441, Montgomery, AL 36104
Office: 334.293.4671 - Montgomery Regional Workforce Training Center
2913 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36116
Phone: 334-721-8901 - Alabama Associated Builders and Contractors
6425 Rangeline Rd, Theodore, AL 36582
4132 Trax Drive, Birmingham, AL 35207
4223 Troy Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36116
Phone: 205-870-9768, ext:103 - Raymond Carolina Handling
33 Barber Ct, Ste 113, Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone: 205-402-0640, Fax: 205-402-0644 - LiftOne
3930 Pinson Valley Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35217
Phone: 205.520.2000 - National Welding Academy
16487 Sawmill Rd, Moundville, AL 35475
Phone: 205-657-2967 (not a regular event) - Briggs Equipment
647 Murray Road, Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: 334-793-4927 - Springer Equipment Company, Inc.
4263 Underwood Industrial Drive, Birmingham, AL 35210 (MAP)
Phone: (205) 951-3675 - Kenco Toyota-Lift Inc.
9600 Madison Blvd.
Phone: (256) 464-6462 - Shelton State Community College
Workforce Development Center
9500 Old Greensboro Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205.391.2211
C.A. Fredd Campus
3401 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
205.391.2611
(not a regular event)
Salary of a Certified Forklift Operator in Alabama
The salary of operators will depend on many factors such as years of experience, size of the company, economic stability of the state. As of February 27, 2023, you can make an average salary of $38,103 per year according to Salary.Com. In Georgia, the wage is a little higher.
This figure is an estimate and does not include given bonuses, certain perks and rendered over time. Salary of lift truck drivers may also show a discrepancy from city to city.
Here are the cities of Alabama with highest pay for forklift operators :
| Auburn | $36,659 | Prattville | $36,429 |
| Birmingham | $38,338 | Theodore | $37,501 |
| Decatur | $37,567 | Tuscaloosa | $38,083 |
| Dothan | $34,954 | Vandiver | $38,165 |
| Florence | $35,029 | Vinemont | $38,521 |
| Gadsden | $38,267 | Watson | $38,295 |
| Gilbertown | $37,241 | Weaver | $38,013 |
| Huntsville | $38,846 | West Blocton | $37,864 |
| Madison | $38,846 | Wilsonville | $38,013 |
| Mobile | $37,566 | Woodville | $38,672 |
| Montgomery | $36,429 | York | $37,759 |
Check this salary matrix to see operator salary of states and cities:
If you are still unemployed and wanting to apply for a job, here the topics you need to READ:
- How to Write a Resume that Will Impress the Hiring Manager
- How to Write an Application Letter
- How to Find a Forklift Job Even Without Experience
- Is Driving Forklift the Right Job For You
- Prospecting Your New Job
Employer Responsibilities for Forklift Operator Training
Employers have a responsibility to provide training for forklift operators to ensure the safety of their employees and the workplace. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers are required to provide forklift training that includes formal instruction, practical training, and evaluation of the forklift operator's performance. The training should cover the specific type of forklift the operator will be using, as well as any hazards associated with the work environment.
There are several benefits to providing forklift operator training. First and foremost, it helps to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. Forklifts are powerful machines that can cause serious harm if not used properly, so it is essential that operators receive proper training. Additionally, trained forklift operators are more efficient and productive, which can improve the overall performance of the business. Finally, providing training shows a commitment to the safety and well-being of employees, which can improve morale and job satisfaction.
Employers who fail to provide adequate forklift training can be held liable for any accidents or injuries that occur as a result. This can result in costly lawsuits and fines, as well as damage to the company's reputation. Additionally, if an employee is injured due to a lack of training, the employer may be liable for workers' compensation claims.
Governing Agencies:
For more information about employment standards, you can visit the Alabama Department of Labor at their website www.labor.alabama.gov. Their address is 649 Monroe Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36131.
Alabama OSHA
Medical Forum Building, 950 22nd Street North, Room 1050, Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 731-1534
To Make a Conclusion
Operating a forklift may seem like a simple work but are you aware of the risk and danger? This is why having the proper training is vital for employer and individual alike.
Invest some time and money in completing a forklift training program you will reap great benefits from it.
Other Cities and Municipalities of AL
Hoover, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Dothan, Auburn, Gadsden, Albertville, Alexander City, Alabaster, Anniston, Athens, Ashville, Atmore, Bay Minette, Bessemer, Boaz, Chelsea, Cullman, Daphne, Enterprise, Eufaula, Fairfield, Florence, Fort Payne, Gadsden, Gardendale, Greenville, Hartselle, Helena, Homewood, Hueytown, Irondale, Jacksonville, Jasper, Leeds, Lincoln, Millbrook, Monroeville, Montevallo, Mountain Brook, Muscle Shoals, Northport, Oneonta, Opelika, Ozark, Pelham, Pell City, Phenix City, Pleasant Grove, Prattville, Prichard, Rainbow City, Saraland, Scottsboro, Selma, Sheffield, Southside, Sylacauga, Talladega, Troy, Trussville, Tuskegee, Vestavia Hills, Wetumpka
