Forklift Safety OSHA Training Tips
When it comes to workplace safety, one tool stands out for its incredible utility and potential risk: the forklift. While forklifts streamline heavy lifting in warehouses and logistics operations, they also cause over 34,000 serious injuries and nearly 100 deaths every year in the U.S. alone.
That’s why OSHA mandates certified forklift training for all operators. And here’s the real kicker—most training programs are only offered to businesses. But Maybury Material Handling is changing that. They offer OSHA-compliant forklift training to individuals, making life-saving safety education accessible to everyone—not just corporations.
Whether you’re looking to improve your resume, start a new job, or operate a forklift on your own property, this article gives you the best OSHA safety tips—and tells you exactly how to get certified through Maybury’s OSHA Certified Training program.
Understanding OSHA’s Forklift Safety Rules
OSHA’s standard for forklift operations is found in 29 CFR 1910.178. It lays out everything from operator responsibilities to maintenance protocols.
Here’s what OSHA expects from you:
- Formal instruction (classroom/video/online)
- Hands-on training
- A practical evaluation by a qualified trainer
If you don’t have certification, you’re not legally allowed to operate a forklift—even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Why Forklift Safety Training Saves Lives
Here’s what happens without proper training:
- Operators misuse controls
- Loads are improperly balanced
- Safety checks are skipped
- People are injured or worse
Every accident prevented through education is a life saved. OSHA training teaches situational awareness, equipment handling, and the legal responsibilities of being behind the wheel of a forklift.
Top 10 OSHA Forklift Safety Training Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Always inspect your forklift daily | Catch problems before they cause accidents |
| Know your load capacity | Prevent tip-overs and broken pallets |
| Use seat belts 100% of the time | Reduces ejection risk in a rollover |
| Slow down at intersections | Prevents crashes with people and objects |
| Never lift people without platforms | It’s illegal and extremely dangerous |
| Drive in reverse when visibility is blocked | Keeps eyes on hazards |
| Keep forks low while moving | Improves stability and avoids collisions |
| Sound horn at corners or blind spots | Alerts others in shared workspaces |
| Watch for floor hazards | Running over debris on the floor can cause you to lose control |
| If on an incline always drive straight up and down-never turn on an incline | Stability triangle can be thrown off |
Common Mistakes New Operators Make
Without training, beginners often:
- Use forklifts like bumper cars
- Forget to check fluid levels
- Lift people without proper equipment
- Ignore load center measurements
- Drive too fast indoors
Each mistake puts everyone at risk.
Who Needs Forklift Training Under OSHA?
- Full-time warehouse employees
- Temporary or part-time workers
Anyone operating a powered industrial truck—even briefly - Individuals operating forklifts outside traditional jobs
And that’s where Maybury comes in.
Maybury Offers OSHA Forklift Certification to Individuals
Unlike most providers who only certify through employers or safety contractors, Maybury opens their training to individual applicants. So if you:
- Are between jobs and want a forklift certification
- Need it for a side business or home project
- Want to boost your resume
- Are exploring industrial careers
Maybury can get you the safety training you need.
Why This Is a Game-Changer
With most training options tied to employment, Maybury’s open-access model:
- Empowers self-starters
- Supports career transitions
- Makes compliance easier for smaller operators and freelancers
It’s real OSHA training—not watered down. You’ll get hands-on learning, written instruction, and a proper evaluation.
How to Get OSHA Certified Through Maybury
Maybury makes it easy for anyone—not just businesses—to access certified forklift training. Whether you’re a career starter, small business owner, or just need the certification for a personal project, the process is straightforward.
To sign up, you must contact Maybury directly.
What’s Included in Maybury’s Training?
- Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training meets OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.178 requirements
- Scissor and Boom lift operator training meets ANSI/SAIA standards
- Train the Trainer Program for industrial trucks and aerial lifts
- OSHA General Industry 10-Hour/30-Hour
- Site Safety Inspections
- Pedestrian Safety Training
Conclusion
Forklift accidents are serious—but they’re also highly preventable. The first step is proper OSHA-approved training. And thanks to Maybury Material Handling, that training is now available to everyone—not just employees of large businesses.
Whether you’re working independently, looking to get hired, or simply want to stay safe—Maybury’s forklift certification program is your access point to a safer, smarter future. Get OSHA Certified with Maybury by visiting Maybury’s Forklift Training Page today and sign up. Flexible schedules, Real OSHA Certification, Open to Everyone
FAQs about Forklift Training & Maybury’s Program
Can I get certified without being employed?
Yes. Maybury’s program is open to all individuals.
Is this training OSHA-compliant?
Absolutely. You’ll meet all 1910.178 certification standards.
How long does certification last?
Three years, unless an incident or performance issue occurs.
How long does the course take?
Approximately 4 hours including classroom, hands-on and evaluation.
Can I use this certification for job applications?
Yes, it’s recognized across the industry.