What Are the Forklift License Requirements in Ontario?
The forklift license requirements in Ontario include getting the training, knowledge, and experience necessary to be considered "competent" to safely operate a forklift.
This article will discuss all you need to know about forklift licenses in Ontario. Click on each link to jump ahead to the next section:
Choose a Course that Offers Both In-Class and Practical Training
Why Following Forklift Certification Requirements in Ontario Is Important
Even though you don't get an actual license to drive a forklift like you do to drive a car, you do have to provide proof that you have received the proper training that meets the OHSA (Occupational Health and Safety Act) guidelines.
If you are looking for a forklift operator training course that meets the standards set out by the CSA (Canadian Standards Association), the Ontario Ministry of Labour and the OHSA, contact Forklifthub today.
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Forklift License Requirements in Ontario
Forklifts are used in thousands of workplaces all across Ontario. They are found in manufacturing, mining, retail, wholesale, hospitality, hospitals, construction, and other large institutions.
If you currently operate a forklift, or if you would like to get a job operating one, you need to get the proper training that meets the federal and provincial safety standards.
You need to be considered “competent” in order to operate a forklift in Ontario
According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, you must be deemed "competent" in order to operate a lifting device. This means that you need to have the training, knowledge and experience necessary to operate the particular forklift or lifting device that you are working with. In order to become "competent," you should do the following:
Choose a Recognized Forklift Operator Training Course:
You should select a forklift training course that meets the standards laid out by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and the Ontario Ministry of Labour.
Make sure that the course you choose covers the particular type of equipment that you will be working on.
The course should also give you written confirmation that you have successfully completed it. Usually. this means that you will be given a certificate at the end of the training.
Select a course that will give you written confirmation of your successful completion - image source: intro2outro
2. Choose a Course that Offers Both In-Class and Practical Training:
You want to take a course that will give you theoretical as well as practical training.
In-Class Training
The in-class portion of your training should include topics such as:
Provincial and Federal legislation
Basic Principles of a forklift
Lift truck design and stability
Parts of a forklift
Safety Rules
Driving Hazards
Following your in-class training, you should be given a written test to determine whether or not you understand the principles of operating a forklift, including best safety practices.
The more practice time you get, the better your skills will become - image source: Rashtriya Technical Institute
Practical Training:
Your practical training should allow you to have plenty of time actually operating the type of equipment that you will be using in your job.
Just like driving a car, operating a forklift will improve with practice. You will want to get that practice under the guidance of a professional trainer - not on your own.
Sometimes training will be done at your place of work, or if this is not possible, there are training facilities that allow you to come there to do your training on their equipment.
At the end of your practical training, you should be given a practical test to make sure that you are fully competent.
4. Get Training if You Switch Forklift Types:
Not all forklifts are the same. Because of this you need to enroll in a course that will teach you to properly operate the specific type of lift truck that you will be operating.
If your company buys new equipment that is different from the equipment that you have previously used or if your change jobs and are working on different equipment, then you will need training on these new devices.
There are 8 basic classifications of forklifts/lift trucks. The vehicle's classification is determined by two main factors: the type of fuel used to power it and the type of work or purpose it is used for. To learn more about these different classifications, click here.
You need to be trained on the particular type of forklift you will be operating
5. Why Following Forklift Certification Requirements in Ontario Is Important
It's the Law: Unlike driving a car, you don’t need an actual license to operate a forklift in Ontario. It is extremely important, however, that you know and follow forklift certification requirements in Ontario because it is the law. If you do not have the proper training and certification required to operate a forklift, then you are not legally allowed to do so.
It Can Save Your Life or Someone Else's: A forklift can be an extremely dangerous piece of equipment. If you haven't been properly trained in the correct safety procedures of operating a lifting device, you run the risk of getting into an accident that can either cause bodily harm or cause fatal injuries for yourself or your co-workers.
It Can Make You a More Efficient and Effective Worker: Proper training will help you become a better forklift operator. You will learn how to work more efficiently and effectively while still being safe. This type of training will make you a more valuable employee for your company.
Being properly trained can save your life
image source: intro2outro
Become a "Competent" Forklift Operator with ForkliftHub
ForkliftHub’s intense and comprehensive forklift safety training program will provide you and your employees with the best safety training at the best price. This thorough program has a 98% pass rate. We can train individuals or groups at our facility or yours - you choose.
Our Safe Operation of a Lift Truck/Forklift Program is an excellent way for you to ensure forklift safety in your workplace. With our training you will experience:
• Innovative training practices
• Affordable pricing
• Flexible and professional trainers
• Comprehensive in-class and practical experience
Contact ForkliftHub today to learn more.
ForkliftHub Offers Top Quality Service on All Forklift Makes and Models
If you are looking for top quality forklift maintenance and service, contact ForkliftHub. Our fully equipped service and parts department is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Our qualified technicians are capable of properly performing maintenance services and inspections of all types.
Our knowledgeable staff can keep your equipment in top working condition, which means lower repair costs and higher machine efficiency. Contact ForkliftHub today for all of your forklift maintenance and repair needs.
