November 12, 2014
Heavy machinery is used in a variety of areas and for many different reasons. From construction sites to the transportation of large industrial products, operators of heavy machinery are responsible for controlling a device that has great potential to harm themselves and people around them. Below, you’ll find a list of training topics that are required for most Heavy Machinery Operators.
OSHA Required Training
Fall Protection OSHA Regulation: 1926.503(a)
When OSHA Requires Fall Protection Training:
Required for each employee that may be exposed to fall hazards. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
When there is a change in the workplace or the employer has reason to believe that a trained employee does not have the understanding and skill necessary to perform the job safely.
Downloadable Fall Protection Training Resources (free):
First Aid OSHA Regulation: 1910.266 App B
When OSHA Requires First Aid Training:
In the absence of a nearby hospital or clinic (more than 4 minutes away), a designated employee should be trained to render first aid. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
Retraining for life threatening emergencies should occur annually. Retraining for non-life-threatening response should occur ‘periodically’.
Downloadable First Aid Training Resources (free):
Forklifts OSHA Regulation: 1910.178(l)
When OSHA Requires Forklift Training:
When an employee is required to use a powered industrial truck as part of their job duties. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
Re-evaluation every three years; re-training if new equipment is introduced, an accident occurs, or if the operator is operating the equipment in an unsafe manner.
Downloadable Forklift Training Resources (free):
Manlifts OSHA Regulation: 1910.66(i)(1)
When OSHA Requires Manlift Training:
When an employee is required to operate a working platform as part of their job. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
None specified.
Downloadable Manlift Training Resources (free):
Hearing Protection OSHA Regulation: 1910.95(k)
When OSHA Requires Hearing Protection Training:
Employees that are exposed to noise at or above an 8-hour time weighted average of 85 decibels. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
Annually.
Downloadable Hearing Protection Training Resources (free):
Personal Protective and Respiratory Equipment OSHA Regulation: 1910.132(f)
When OSHA Requires Personal Protective and Respiratory Equipment Training:
When an employee is required to wear PPE, they must be trained on its usage. See full OSHA regulation for more details.
Training Frequency
Retraining required when the type of PPE changes, employee demonstrates inability to use PPE properly, or when the workplace changes in a way that renders previous training obsolete.
Downloadable Personal Protective and Respiratory Equipment Training Resources (free):
Industry Best-Practice Training (Not required by OSHA)
Cranes, Chains, Slings, Hoists, and Rigging
Training Frequency
Annually
Downloadable Cranes, Chains, Slings, Hoists, and Rigging Training Resources (free):
Trench and Shoring Safety
Training Frequency
Annually
Downloadable Trench and Shoring Safety Training Resources (free):
Hand Safety
Training Frequency
Annually
Downloadable Hand Safety Training Resources (free):
Materials Handling
Training Frequency
Annually