One of the critically important aspects to the shipping and storing of materials, supplies, and products within the manufacturing industry is the often underappreciated position of forklift operator. Such jobs contribute a fundamental combination of efficient inventory management and workplace safety to their places of employment – provided that the proper levels of operator training and forklift maintenance are parts of that equation as well.
The importance of forklift operator jobs training can neither be understated nor overlooked. The sheer volume of inventory that must be moved by forklift operators on a daily basis is quite staggering, not to mention the absolute dollar value of this merchandise and its inherent importance to the viability of the operators’ employers.
Unfortunately, most forklift-related accidents can be directly attributed to the operators’ error, and are often a result of training that is inadequate or entirely lacking for the individuals who are given such jobs. Some of the serious consequences of forklift-related accidents can include:
- Severe injuries to operators or other employees
- Permanent disabilities or loss of life
- Potential criminal charges, fines, or convictions
- Damaged or destroyed inventory
- Spillage of hazardous materials
- Increased insurance premiums or loss of coverage
- Extensive costs to repair structural damage
- Extensive costs to repair/replace machinery
Fortunately, there has been a statistically-observed reduction in accidents and property damage attributed to forklift jobs over the last several years, largely due to better operator training on the use of a forklift and an emphasis on the proper procedures for lifting and moving various types of loads and materials.
Certification is a requirement for individuals interested in pursuing forklift operator jobs within the province of Ontario. There are a number of basic facts that one should know before moving forward with any certification, including:
- The minimum age for forklift operation is 18 years
- A driver’s license is not required to operate a forklift
- Forklift training must adhere to strict standards set by:
- CSA – Canadian Standards Association
- MOL – Ministry of Labour
- Certifications have two components or levels
- Practical training as well as theoretical aspects
- Periodic re-certification is required as follows:
- Practical – every 18 months
- Theoretical – every 36 months
- Additional or separate training may be required for:
- Handling hazardous materials (WHMIS)
- Transporting dangerous goods (TDG)
- Ontario certifications are not valid in other provinces
- Obtaining a certification does not guarantee employment
There are different avenues that one may follow in order to become certified for forklift operator jobs. These options consist of:
- Independently, via group or individual training
- Offered by independently-licensed facilities
- Primarily for those with little/no experience
- Trainees are responsible for registration fees
- Corporate- or employer-sponsored certification
- Online courses (for the theory component only)
Forklift jobs can provide viable and rewarding long-term career opportunities. Those wishing to pursue such a career but are perhaps uncertain where to begin may choose to use the services of a manufacturing staffing agency like Winters Technical Staffing to enhance their chances of entering this field.
Apply For Forklift Jobs Through A Manufacturing Staffing Agency
If you are intent on applying for forklift jobs in Ontario, capitalizing on the resources of a staffing agency would be a highly worthwhile consideration – particularly if that agency has extensive experience in dealing with the manufacturing sector. Our expert recruiters at Winters Technical Staffing, have been providing temporary and full-time staff to this industry for more than 40 years.
Winters Technical Staffing can offer the guidance, insight, and opportunities that you will need to enter your chosen field. Our services include but are not limited to:
- Extensive networking with hiring managers
- Access to non-publicized forklift job postings
- Awareness of immediately available opportunities
- Resume development and interview preparation
- Provision of basic health and safety training
Contact Winters Today
For professional advice and guidance on obtaining the proper training and certification for forklift jobs, call Winters Technical Staffing today at 1-877-495-7422 to schedule a free consultation.
Kenneth Gladman
I like that you mentioned the importance of being certified when operating machinery such as a forklift. I know an employee who was killed in a forklift accident. These are big machines that can cause a lot of damage and you should know what you are doing when you operate one.
Luke Yancey
I never knew that forklifts were so dangerous! I am looking into a job that would require me to move things with a forklift every so often, so this article was beneficial to me in a lot of ways. Do you know if places of work typically offer the training? Or do you have to go to a different place?