When you get certified to operate a scissor lift, that certification lasts for three years. After three years, you need to take a refresher course to renew your certification and ensure you’re up to date with safety practices and regulations. This helps keep everyone safe and ensures that operators are knowledgeable about the latest safety standards.
When you receive a scissor lift certification, it means you’ve been trained and tested to operate the equipment safely. This certification is valid for three years. During these three years, you are recognized as a qualified operator. However, after three years, you must renew your certification by taking a refresher course.
The refresher course is important because:
- Safety Updates: Safety standards and regulations can change, and it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest practices.
- Skill Reinforcement: Regular training helps reinforce safe operating skills and correct any bad habits that may have developed.
- Legal Compliance: Employers must comply with OSHA regulations, which require operators to be trained and up-to-date with their training.
If your scissor lift certification has expired for many years, you will need to take more comprehensive training to get certified. This ensures you are fully updated on current safety practices, equipment features, and regulations. Comprehensive training typically includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice, covering all aspects of scissor lift operation to ensure you can operate the equipment safely and effectively.
You Can Take Refresher More Frequently
You can take a refresher course more frequently than every three years if needed. Here are some situations where you might need or want to take a refresher course sooner:
Safety Concerns:
- If you’ve been involved in an accident or a near-miss incident while operating a scissor lift, it’s a clear sign that a refresher course is necessary. This training can help identify what went wrong and reinforce safe operating practices to prevent future incidents.
Performance Issues:
- Employers may notice that an operator is not using the equipment safely or efficiently. This could be due to a lapse in following safety protocols or becoming complacent. A refresher course can address these issues by reviewing correct procedures and highlighting the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.
Changes in Equipment:
- If you switch to a different type of scissor lift or if there are significant modifications to the equipment you usually operate, a refresher course can familiarize you with the new features or operational differences. This ensures that you can handle the new equipment safely and effectively.
Regulatory Changes:
- Safety regulations and standards can evolve over time. If there are updates or new regulations, a refresher course will provide you with the latest information and practices, ensuring compliance and safety.
Employer Requirements:
- Some employers have policies that require more frequent training to maintain a high level of safety in the workplace. These policies might be based on the specific risks associated with the job or past experiences with workplace incidents. Regular refresher courses help ensure that all operators are consistently following best practices and safety protocols.
By understanding these situations, you can see why taking a refresher course more frequently can be beneficial. It helps maintain a high standard of safety, keeps skills up-to-date, and ensures compliance with the latest regulations and employer requirements.
Other Situations That May Prompt Operator To Take The Scissor Lift Refresher Training
New Job Responsibilities:
- When an operator takes on new roles that involve more frequent or complex use of scissor lifts, they may encounter new risks and challenges. Refresher training can help them understand and manage these new responsibilities safely, ensuring they are fully prepared for their tasks.
Workplace Environment Changes:
- Changes such as new construction, different types of terrain, or altered work conditions can introduce unfamiliar hazards. Training can help operators adapt to these changes by teaching them how to navigate and operate the scissor lift safely in the new environment.
Technological Advancements:
- If new technology or automation features are added to scissor lifts, operators need to learn how to use these advancements effectively. Refresher training can provide hands-on experience and instructions on utilizing new features, ensuring operators can work efficiently and safely with the updated equipment.
Audit Findings:
- Safety audits or inspections might identify gaps or deficiencies in how scissor lifts are being operated. If such findings arise, refresher training can address these issues by reinforcing proper procedures and correcting any mistakes or bad habits that may have developed.
Incident Reports:
- An increase in incident reports or near-miss records involving scissor lifts indicates potential safety concerns. Refresher training can help identify the causes of these incidents and provide additional training to prevent similar occurrences in the future, promoting a safer work environment.
Operator Self-Assessment:
- Sometimes, an operator might feel uncertain about their skills or knowledge. They might request refresher training to boost their confidence and ensure they are operating the scissor lift safely and competently.
Industry Best Practices:
- The adoption of new industry best practices can lead to the need for additional training. Staying current with best practices ensures that operators are using the most effective and safest methods available, which can improve overall workplace safety and efficiency.
Employee Turnover:
- High staff turnover can lead to gaps in safety knowledge, especially if new hires are not as experienced. Regular refresher training helps ensure that all employees, including new ones, are up-to-date with safety protocols and operating procedures.
Seasonal Work:
- In industries with seasonal peaks, operators may not use scissor lifts regularly throughout the year. Refresher training before the busy season starts can help them brush up on their skills and prepare for increased workload, ensuring they can operate the equipment safely and efficiently.
Manufacturer Recommendations:
- Equipment manufacturers may issue new guidelines, updates, or safety recommendations. Following these recommendations often requires additional training to ensure that operators understand and implement these changes correctly, maintaining compliance and safety.
If You’re Presently Employed, It Is The Responsibility Of The Employer To Recertify Their Scissor Lift Operators
If you have a job where you use a scissor lift, your boss is responsible for making sure you take the necessary refresher training courses and get recertified. This means they need to:
Arrange Training:
- Scheduling: Your employer will find and schedule the necessary recertification training sessions for you. They’ll coordinate the dates and times that work best for you and the training provider.
- Selecting Providers: They’ll choose accredited training providers who can offer the proper recertification courses that meet industry standards and regulations.
Cover Costs:
- Training Fees: Your employer will pay for the cost of the course. This includes any fees charged by the training provider.
- Materials: If the course requires any study materials, manuals, or equipment, your employer will cover these costs as well.
- Compensation: If the training takes place during work hours, your employer will compensate you for your time, ensuring you don’t lose pay while you’re getting recertified.
Keep Records:
- Tracking Expiry Dates: Your employer will monitor the expiration dates of your certification to ensure you stay compliant. They’ll set reminders and notify you when it’s time to renew.
- Documentation: They will maintain proper records of your training. This includes certificates of completion and any other relevant documents. These records might be needed for audits or inspections.
In short, your employer takes care of everything needed to keep your knowledge up to date so you can continue to operate the scissor lift safely and legally.
It Is Important for Employers To Track Certification Expiration Date
It is important for employers to track the expiration dates of their operators’ scissor lift certifications for several reasons:
- Safety Compliance:
- Ensuring that operators are certified and up-to-date with their training helps maintain a safe work environment. Certified operators are knowledgeable about the latest safety standards and procedures, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Regulatory Requirements:
- OSHA and other regulatory bodies require that operators are certified and that their certifications are current. Keeping track of expiration dates ensures that the company remains compliant with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
- Operational Efficiency:
- Properly trained and certified operators are more efficient and effective in their work. Tracking certification expiration dates ensures that operators receive timely refresher training, maintaining their skills and productivity.
- Liability Reduction:
- If an accident occurs and an operator’s certification is found to be expired, the company could be held liable for negligence. Keeping certifications up-to-date helps protect the company from legal and financial repercussions.
- Employee Morale:
- Investing in regular training and recertification shows employees that the company values their safety and professional development. This can lead to higher morale and job satisfaction.
- Audit Preparedness:
- During safety audits or inspections, having up-to-date records of certifications demonstrates the company’s commitment to safety and compliance. This can result in more favorable audit outcomes.
- Emergency Preparedness:
- Certified operators are better prepared to handle emergency situations safely and effectively. Keeping their certifications current ensures they are trained in the latest emergency response procedures.
Tracking the expiration dates of scissor lift certifications is crucial for maintaining safety, compliance, efficiency, and morale in the workplace. It helps employers ensure that their operators are always prepared and qualified to operate scissor lifts safely.
Where Can You Take The Scissor Lift Recertification
There are several options for taking scissor lift recertification courses. Here are some common places where you can complete this training:
- Online Training Providers:
- Many accredited organizations offer online courses for scissor lift operators. These courses can be convenient as they allow you to complete the training at your own pace and schedule. Some well-known providers include OSHA.com, MEWPTraining.com, and other similar platforms.
- Community Colleges and Technical Schools:
- Many community colleges and technical schools offer courses in heavy equipment operation and maintenance, including MEWP Training. These programs often provide hands-on training in addition to classroom instruction.
- Safety Training Companies:
- Specialized safety training companies offer a wide range of courses These companies often provide both online and in-person training options. Some examples include National Safety Council (NSC), HSI (Health & Safety Institute), and local safety training providers.
- Equipment Manufacturers:
- Many scissor lift manufacturers provide training and courses. They offer specialized programs that focus on the specific equipment they produce. Manufacturers such as JLG, Genie, and Skyjack often have training centers or partner with training providers to offer these courses.
- Trade Associations:
- Trade associations related to construction, manufacturing, and other industries often offer training programs, including scissor lift recertification. Examples include the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
- Employer-Provided Training:
- Some employers offer in-house training and recertification programs for their employees. These programs are tailored to the specific needs and equipment used by the company. Check with your employer to see if they offer or can arrange for the retraining.
- Union Training Centers:
- If you are a member of a labor union, your union might offer training and recertification programs. Unions often have training centers that provide courses to help members stay up-to-date with industry standards.
- OSHA Training Centers:
- OSHA has a network of authorized training centers that offer a variety of safety courses, including scissor lift training. These centers provide high-quality training that meets OSHA standards.
When choosing a course, make sure the provider is accredited and that the course meets OSHA or other relevant safety standards to ensure your certification is recognized and valid.
To Make a Conclusion
Scissor lift certification is valid for three years. After this period, operators need to take a refresher course to renew their certification. Employers are responsible for arranging and paying for this training, ensuring that their operators stay compliant with safety regulations.
Additionally, operators might need more frequent refresher training in cases like safety concerns, changes in equipment, or regulatory updates. Regular training helps maintain a safe work environment and ensures operators are up-to-date with the latest safety practices.
