eLearning Login
Stand-Up Forklift Training & Certification – Class II
Earn your authorized forklift driver card today.
We Offer Three Types of Stand-Up Forklift Safety Trainings
Our regulation-aligned Stand-Up Forklift certification courses are updated to reflect the most recent changes made to safety standards. Whether you want a certification in as little as two hours, or a more robust training, we can help! We offer online trainings that can be completed in a day, DIY training kits that provide training materials, Train the Trainer certifications that certify individuals to train others and provide training materials, or onsite training. No matter what you choose, we can get you what you want, at a price you can afford.
Online Training
Online training is for those who prefer self-paced training from any location and/or for employers who need to assign and monitor employee training progress and exam scores.
Purchase Options
Training Kits
The training kit is for those who want the freedom of doing the training themselves. It is an PowerPoint Presentation (PPT) that you can present yourself to a group of trainees.
Purchase Options
Train the Trainer
Train the Trainer courses are online and meant to certify a individual to use the training kit to train others. Training kit and materials are included with the Train the Trainer online course for no additional cost.
Purchase OptionsWhat’s in the Stand-Up Forklift Training Course?
Our Stand-Up Forklift Safety Training course here at Hard Hat Construction Safety Training is regulation aligned, and our online version fulfills classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on anatomical components, principles of stability, safe operations, common hazards to avoid, and more.
This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. In addition to the written exam, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam.
While this training encompasses many important safety standards, you will still need to familiarize yourself with any other federal, state, and local standards that apply to your specific workplace.
For more information check out our related articles How to Operate a Stand-Up Forklift and Stand-Up Forklift vs Sit-Down.
See Purchase Options
For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!
View Purchase OptionsStand-Up Forklift Certification Standards
U.S. Standards
Canada Standards
International Standards
Train the Trainer Certification
The Train the Trainer option is used to certify a trainer to teach others using the included training kit. It incorporates the online course with an additional train the trainer module, as well as the training kit. This option results in an regulation-aligned lifetime trainer certification from Hard Hat Training. This certification is not company-specific, meaning you can take it with you should you change employers.
Why Do I Need Stand-Up Forklift Safety Training?
In line with regulations, anyone who operates heavy equipment must receive training prior to operating the machine on their own. Requirements for refresher training related to forklifts or other processes are very specific. Most other equipment doesn’t have such specific requirements, but it’s wise to follow the same guidelines.
When it comes to refresher training, the standards in some instances (like forklifts) are very specific: operators must be re-evaluated every three years to see if they are still competent to operate the equipment. Best practices say to apply this same rule to all types of equipment. A so-called “free-pass” cannot be awarded based on experience, age, or time on the job. The extent of the evaluation is to be determined by the employer but should include a written and practical examination that prove continued competency.
Stay Informed On All Things Stand-Up Forklift
Did You Know?
Forklifts became popular during World War 1 when manual labor was scarce. (Source: History of the Forklift Truck).
Safety Videos
Blog Posts
Stand-Up Forklift Training Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need forklift training?
OSHA requires stand-up forklift training for forklift operators–on that there is no question. Where confusion exists is how often operators need forklift refresher training or recertification. Outside of the initial safety training class, OSHA requires forklift operators be re-evaluated every three years to determine if they are still competent enough to operate.
However, this every-three-year forklift evaluation is the maximum time that is allowed to pass before an operator receives forklift recertification. According to OSHA, there are several instances that will require additional stand-up forklift training and observation before the three year period is up:
- Forklift operator is observed in an accident or a near miss
- Forklift operator received a poor evaluation or is observed driving in a dangerous manner
- The forklift operator is assigned to drive a different type of forklift or the workplace has changed significantly enough to require additional forklift training (such as being transferred from a warehouse to a dock or a construction site)
I’ve received forklift training. Can I operate a telescopic handler?
Not likely. OSHA requires forklift operators to receive forklift training for each type of forklift. On this term, “type,” there is much confusion. Generally speaking, by “type” OSHA means sit down forklift vs. stand-up forklift vs. telescopic handler vs. truck mounted forklift, etc. For example, say you have always operated a stand-up forklift in a warehouse but have suddenly been asked to operate a telehandler. In this case, you would need additional forklift training specific to telescopic reach forklifts.
If you have received sit down counterbalanced forklift training in a warehouse and have always operated a Toyota forklift, but then are asked to operate a Cat forklift, you should be just fine to operate under the same training certification received previously. Keep in mind though, controls can differ greatly from brand to brand, so in some cases you may need additional instruction or a quick refresher training to make sure you are clear on what each control does.
I’ve operated forklifts for 30 years. Do I need to take a class, a written exam, and a practical exam still? Or can I just take a written test?
No matter how long you’ve been on the job, OSHA requires forklift training, a forklift written exam, and a practical forklift evaluation. There is no way around it. The extent of the classroom training can be adapted by the instructor according to student needs. The written exam proves mental competency and understanding of the safety principles taught. And the practical evaluation proves the forklift operator not only understands but is capable of operating safely. In the opinion of many, the practical evaluation is of the greatest overall value.
I received stand-up forklift training at a different job. Do I need to be trained again by my new employer?
This is a common question, especially among laborers-for-hire who may sub out from job to job. Technically, it is your current employer who is responsible for saying whether or not you have been trained specifically for the type of forklift and job. If you bring a forklift certificate or wallet card to your new employer, they do not have to accept it. It is their right to require you to take their own stand-up forklift training class. This is because if there is an accident, they will likely be responsible and need to prove to OSHA that they trained you on forklift operations.
Can you explain stand-up forklift certification? Who can train, evaluate, and certify operators?
This, above all, causes a lot of confusion. Bottom line, OSHA states that employers are responsible to train their employees. Generally speaking, there are three ways they can do this:
- Train employees in-house with their own program
- Hire a 3rd party to train the employees (on-site or off-site)
- Use another company’s materials or online classes to train employees
In terms of using a 3rd party companies safety training materials (like our forklift training kits on CD or our forklift online training classes) OSHA does not recognize one company over another. They simply state that ‘training needs to occur’ and ‘here are the things a forklift operator should be trained on.’
When we do live training or offer forklift training online, people often assume we are the ones certifying the trainees. This is not true for any training company. We are simply assisting the employer by providing live forklift training or the training materials needed to help them forklift certify their employees.
How do I take the forklift practical evaluation if I take stand-up forklift training online?
The online forklift training class covers OSHA’s requirements for the classroom portion. Many employers prefer online training because they know exactly what forklift training the operator will receive. In live classes, the training sometimes varies. A written exam is included at the end of our online training courses. After the forklift class and exam are finished, you and your safety managers will have immediate access to a practical evaluation checklist. This can be printed off and used by your supervisor to help him or her evaluate you on the forklift. When done, they can sign it and file it with your exam. This will satisfy OSHA’s requirements for forklift certification.
Can I use any forklift attachment with my forklift?
No. OSHA states that the forklift manufacturer must approve the use of a specific forklift attachment. Too often we see forklift operators using personnel work platforms (man baskets) or other attachments that are made by different manufacturers. They assume that because their forklift is equipped to use such an attachment, it is okay to use any brand. Not true. If you are operating a Toyota forklift then you must contact Toyota and get their written approval to use any attachment, especially if they are of another brand. New capacity plates must be issued with any addition. Your operator’s manual will tell you if your forklift can handle certain kinds of attachments or not.
My trainee scored 80% on the exam. Did he pass or fail?
Contrary to popular belief, OSHA does not dictate what a passing score entails. That is ultimately up to the employer whose responsibility it is to certify, or authorize, their employee to operate a forklift. If you want to pass him at 80%, fine. But what if a question or two among the 20% missed could lead to an accident or death? Is it worth it? Our recommendation is that you always go over any missed questions with your trainees—even if they just missed one. Once they understand the principle missed, have them write their initials by the correct answer. That way, you are protecting them and those around them from potential accidents in the future.
What are some other names for a stand-up forklift?
You might also hear a stand-up forklift called a stand-on forklift, or an electric rider forklift.
What other types of forklifts are there?
Forklifts come in a great variety. The most common types, according to toyotaforklift.com, are electric forklifts, internal combustion forklifts, order pickers, reach trucks, high-capacity forklifts, pallet jacks, and pallet stackers. There are other classification systems that range from 5-7 types of forklifts.
How much do stand-up forklifts cost?
Current internet searches show models that range from $15,000 to $35,000. When purchasing a stand-up forklift, however, prices should not be the primary concern. Carefully consider where you would use the forklift, and what it would be lifting. These factors will help you select a model that is safe for the use to which you will put it.
What are the important differences between a stand-up and sit-down forklifts?
Besides the obvious comfort of the operator (“stand-up” and “sit-down” refers to the position of the operator during operation of the machine), sit-down forklifts are generally more stable and safe, especially if the forklift must stop suddenly or if it slips. Stand-up forklifts are more maneuverable, especially in narrow spaces.
See Purchase Options
For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!
View Purchase OptionsStand-Up Forklift Training and Certification | OSHA Aligned
What Is a Stand-Up Forklift?
A stand-up forklift is also known as a stand-on forklift. A stand-up forklift would be considered as a Class I forklift, meaning it is an electric motor rider truck. A stand-up forklift is compact and, as the name suggests, is operated by an individual who will control the vehicle while standing.
What Is It Used For?
Stand-up forklifts are commonly used on service docks. This would be where employees regularly load, unload, and stack pallets. They are also used to make logistical procedures more efficient and quicker.
The Benefits Of Using a Stand-Up Forklift
Stand-up forklifts are perfect for maneuvering in tight spaces and other restricted areas. They are shorter, more compact, and have a small turning radius. This increases maneuverability and gives employees better access to constricted areas. These trucks are also convenient for tasks that require the operator to regularly get on and off the machine.
A stand-up forklift operator stands sideways on the machine, which allows for maximum visibility. Operating a stand-up forklift also has some safety advantages. Standing enhances operator alertness on the job, which improves safety and performance.
Ergonomic Benefits
Slouching might put a strain on an operator’s spine and cause harm. Leaning out of a cab on a stand-up forklift can potentially put your employees in danger. Operator backrest models can assist in maintaining excellent posture without allowing fatigue to set in.
Stand-up forklifts have a steering knob in front of the operator and a fighter-style joystick control handle at the front. These controls are designed to mimic the action of a person’s natural arm extension, eliminating unneeded stress.
Neck and back pain caused by craning necks to see the load is a common complaint among normal forklift operators. However, stand-up forklifts have wide-view masts to keep loads visible and improve operator visibility.
Stand-Up Forklift Safety Standards & Requirements
OSHA does not have any standards that are specific to stand-up forklifts. However, they do have more general standards that apply to powered industrial trucks or PITs. The term PIT is simply another way to say forklift or lift truck.
According to OSHA regulations, all forklift operators must complete an OSHA-aligned training program. It is critical to recognize the safety concerns involved with these machines. Whether you’re hauling freight at a warehouse, moving materials on a construction site, or stocking shelves in a retail store, you should be able to identify hazards.
Any type of powered industrial truck, including stand-up forklift, must only be used for its intended purposes. Forklift operators must adhere to the set speed limits, watch for pedestrians, and never use their machines for horseplay.
When it comes to job-specific requirements, your employer may have predetermined hiring requirements. For example, your employer may require that you have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some companies also require prior forklift experience.
How Do I Become a Stand-Up Forklift Operator?
As stated previously, if you are looking to become a stand-up forklift operator, you must first successfully complete an OSHA Aligned safety training course. We will go into more detail about this type of course later.
Once you have completed the course, you will receive a certificate. Your employer will then provide you with on-the-job training, which will help you become familiar with the specific lift truck you will be operating.
After you have demonstrated that you know how to safely operate a stand-up forklift, you will officially be a stand-up forklift operator. You must always follow the safety standards, policies, and workplace procedures if you want to keep your operator certification.
What Does a Stand-Up Forklift Operator Do?
In a warehouse or similar context, a stand-up forklift operator employs machines to transport things. Your responsibilities may include using a forklift to lift hefty loads and place them in the proper location. As a forklift driver, you assist in the loading and unloading of vehicles and the movement of cargo from the loading dock to the warehouse.
A stand-up forklift driver’s duties could potentially involve operating various types of equipment. You may be required to perform inspections and maintenance in addition to being familiar with the controls.
Common Hazards Involving Stand-Up Forklifts
According to OSHA statistics, there are certain inherent dangers linked with forklift operations even under regular working conditions. A forklift can be an extremely dangerous piece of equipment, and the majority of injuries and deaths are caused by a number of basic hazards. We will go over some of the more prevalent risks related to forklift operations and demonstrate how to spot, avoid, or reduce them.
Struck By Incidents
Being struck by a forklift is the number one cause of injuries and deaths involving forklifts and accounts for at least 32% of all forklift related injuries and fatalities. The most common causes of a struck-by incident are:
- Driving with a load that obstructs the vision of the operator
- Going too fast in pedestrian dense areas
- Rear end swinging of forklift during turns
- Backing up
The most effective way to combat these hazards is by ensuring operators are regularly watching for pedestrians. According to OSHA, the operator is primarily responsible for the safe and proper operation of their equipment.
Hit by Falling Load
The second most common hazard associated with forklift operations is employees being hit by a falling load. This hazard accounts for 20% of forklift related injuries and fatalities every year. This is usually caused by a long, wide load that is not attached to the forks, a cargo that is not shrink-wrapped, a load that is stacked too high, or overhanging loads that catch when trying to put them into a rack.
Tip Over Accidents
When the center of gravity travels too far forward, the forklift tips over. This is more likely to happen when a lift is driven down a hill or ramp. Sideways tip-overs or lateral instability forklifts occur when the center of gravity shifts too much to the left or right of the wheelbase.
The number one cause of tip overs for stand-up forklifts is going around a corner too fast without a load. Other causes are:
- Turning with the forks or a load in the air
- Stopping abruptly with a load in the air
- Lifting loads that are over capacity down from a trailer or rack
Surviving a tip over when operating a stand-up forklift differs from that of a sit-down forklift. It is still advisable to remain in the operator’s cabin, but there is no seatbelt to keep you secure on a stand-up. If you are tipping over forwards or going off a dock the operator can just step out of the compartment since it is only about a foot off the ground
Elevating Personnel
Many of these happened while lifting someone while they were just standing on the forks. Others used a pallet or a poorly constructed man-basket. Some did not attach the man-basket to the backrest to keep it from coming off the forks.
Using forklifts that are not specifically designed to elevate personnel can be hazardous unless precautions are taken to ensure the safety of the person being elevated and those in the area. Here are some guidelines:
- Use an approved man-basket that is securely attached to the carriage
- The operator must remain at the controls and only operate them when so instructed by the person in the basket
- Before repositioning, lower the person to the floor, move to the new location, and then raise them back up
- The person in the basket should always wear a hard hat
Run Off Dock
A forklift running off a dock or other elevated platform accounts for 7% of all forklift-related injuries and fatalities. Trailer loading can also be dangerous if done incorrectly. Working near docks or edges is never safe, this is why it is important for the operators to be alert and aware at all times.
When a trailer is not backed into a loading dock, make sure the door is closed. When the trailer arrives, the wheels should be chocked and an appropriate ramp used for boarding. When there is no dock to unload from, portable trailer ramps come in handy. Check that the ramp is securely attached to the trailer. When ascending and descending the ramp, proceed with extreme caution. Keep an eye out for pedestrians in the neighborhood.
Maintenance Related
Emergency brakes that don’t work top the list, followed by other maintenance issues and homemade modifications to the forklift. Every day, emergency brakes must be inspected to ensure that they work properly. With the brake applied, shift the machine into drive and observe if it holds. Step on the accelerator slightly to determine if it still works or if it needs to be adjusted.
Most maintenance concerns can be found during the pre-shift inspection. Never operate a forklift that has to be repaired. Make sure to perform the recommended servicing as specified in the Maintenance Manual. Only operate forklifts if you have been properly taught and authorized.
Underride Accidents
Under-ride incidents are the most common hazard associated with stand-up forklifts, specifically. They occur when the operator backs too far towards horizontal shelving, forcing the forklift to slide under the shelf and crush the operator. Regarding stand-up forklifts, this hazard is more likely to happen than a tip-over accident.
OSHA Requirements state operators must maintain a direct line of sight in the direction they are traveling at all times. Keep your eyes ahead as you move forward. When backing up, keep an eye on the forklift’s rear or have a coworker provide an extra line of sight (have a spotter). This appears to be the most common cause of underride accidents.
An underride accident causes many injuries and fatalities in the workplace. Some of the most common injuries that result from this kind of accident are:
- Broken ribs
- Pelvic injuries
- Internal organs injuries
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Asphyxiation
Stand-Up Forklift Operator Training
As stated earlier, stand-up forklift operators must be trained and certified by an OSHA Aligned safety training course before ever attempting to operate a forklift. Stand-up forklifts, like all equipment, can inflict serious injury or death when misused or abused.
Improper training, poor operation, failure to perform preventive maintenance, and failure to inspect can have serious consequences. It is your job as a forklift operator to understand the consequences of these actions.
Stand-Up Forklift Operator Training Outline
Our stand-up forklift operator training has three main portions. The first module of the course is anatomy. It goes into detail about all of the important components of the interior and exterior of the forklift machine. This will include items such as the:
- Operators manual
- Capacity plate
- Forklift body
- Tires
- Mast
- Forks
The second part of the stand-up forklift course is stability principles. The stability of the stand-up rider forklift is founded on the theory of balance, which is not difficult to grasp if you understand a few basic principles. These principles include the:
- Center of gravity
- Stability pyramid
- Dynamic conditions
The final portion of this safety course is all about safe working operations. Which goes into detail about how to maintain and operate your forklift safely. For example, properly conducting a thorough pre-shift inspection of the forklift at the beginning of the day or work shift. If this inspection was performed by someone else, you still need to ensure that there is adequate fuel or that the battery is sufficiently charged. Some other safe working operations it discusses are:
- Attended parking
- Unattended parking
- Loading and unloading trailers
- Elevating personnel
- Personal protective equipment
Getting Your Stand-Up Forklift Certification
After completing the course you will be provided with two attempts to pass the final exam. You only need to score an 80% to pass. Afterward, you will be given the option to download or print out a copy of your certificate.
How Long Is My Training Certificate Valid?
Stand-up forklift certifications will last for three years, the same as it is for all forklift certifications. Once the three-year mark hits, you will be required to take refresher training. You may even be required to retake the safety course. This will ultimately be up to your employer. If you are unsure of what they require, reach out to them for more information.