Unlike forklifts, pallet jack certification are not considered “powered equipment” and are not covered by OSHA’s PIT standard. Nevertheless, they still require training and certification to ensure safety and compliance with workplace safety regulations.

Despite their seemingly simple appearance, there is a very high risk of accidents and injuries related to operating these pieces of machinery. Fortunately, by following simple safety guidelines, you can prevent them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Pallet Jack Certification

Inspect the Equipment: Checking your pallet jack regularly, before and after each use is key to identifying potential issues that may lead to accidents or damage to the equipment. This includes checking that the wheels are in good condition, that there is adequate traction and that the load is stable, well-balanced and not overloaded. In addition, it is important to wear proper footwear (steel-toe shoes) while operating these pieces of equipment.

Do not operate the pallet jack if it is damaged: Always immediately remove any damaged or unsafe equipment from service, and have your employees conduct an equipment walk-through after each shift to identify any hazards that may have occurred during operation.

Certification: The training and certification for manual and electric pallet jacks is available online, and can be completed in just one day! This includes both classroom and hands-on training, under the supervision and guidance of experienced instructors.

This course is OSHA compliant, and will provide you with a Certificate of Completion to demonstrate your successful completion of this class. It contains a short written exam, and a practical hands-on evaluation conducted by an instructor. You must score 80% or better to pass the written exam.