Is Formal Training for Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts, Forklifts, and Telehandlers Required in British Columbia?
Navigating the world of workplace safety in BC can be tricky, especially when it comes to operating heavy machinery. If you're wondering, "Do I need formal training for boom lifts, scissor lifts, forklifts, or telehandlers in BC?", the answer is a resounding YES!
WorkSafeBC Sets the Policy
WorkSafeBC, the provincial occupational health and safety agency, has clear regulations requiring formal training and certification for anyone operating these types of equipment. This is to ensure workers possess the necessary knowledge and skills to operate these machines safely and prevent workplace accidents.
Breaking Down the Requirements
Let's take a closer look at the specific training requirements for each type of equipment:
Boom Lifts: Operating a boom lift (also known as a cherry picker, manlift, or aerial work platform) requires specialized training that covers pre-shift inspections, safe operating procedures, emergency protocols, and fall protection and much more. Boom lift training in Vancouver, all surrounding areas, and all of BC, must meet CSA B354-7/8 standards and WorkSafe BC Regulation part 13, and bits of 11 & 16 & other parts as well.
Scissor Lifts: Similar to boom lifts, scissor lifts require formal training to ensure operators understand how to use the equipment safely and effectively, including proper positioning, stability, and load capacity considerations. Training for scissor lifts in the Greater Vancouver Regional District and all of BC must meet the same standards and regulations as boom lift training.
Forklifts: Forklift operators in BC must be trained to the CSA Standard B335-15, which covers topics like pre-shift inspections, load handling, stability, and safe operating procedures, again there is more...
Telehandlers: Operating a telehandler (also known as a telescopic handler, or zoom boom) requires specialized training due to its versatility and potential hazards. Training covers safe operation, load handling, stability, and understanding the machine's limitations, load charts, suspended loads, and more. Training for a telehandler in the Vancouver area, and all of BC, must also meet CSA B335-15 standard.
Why Formal Training is Essential
Formal training provides operators with the knowledge and skills to:
Identify potential hazards: Recognize and mitigate risks associated with operating the equipment.
Operate the equipment safely: Understand the controls, load capacities, and safe operating procedures.
Respond to emergencies: Handle malfunctions and emergencies effectively, minimizing the risk of injury or damage.
Trouble shoot: Common operator error or operator resolvable issues are best to learn in training opposed to on the job.
Comply with regulations: Ensure compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations and prevent costly fines or penalties.
Why Train With Us?
Several organizations in BC offer certified training programs for these types of equipment. But they all follow the same old dry methods. You train today, recertify in 3 years it is the same course each time, and your skill set never improves as a result of the training. We believe that training should always elevate your skillset. If we cannot elevate your skills, then you don’t need the training. A simple evaluation may be all that is required, contact us if you would like to learn what the actual options are with regards to Boom Lift Training in Vancouver and surrounding areas (or scissor lift, telehandler, fall protection). Training does not have to be done the way we have all been told by the rental houses.
Training with HS Training Co: We provide comprehensive and hands-on training programs for boom lifts, scissor lifts, forklifts, and telehandlers, and other safety and supervision related courses. Our programs are designed to meet WorkSafeBC requirements, CSA/ANSI as well, and equip operators with the skills they need to work safely and efficiently.
“Re-certification” with HS: If you have trained with us before, or trained with a reputable provider, our boom lift, scissor lift, forklift, and telehandler recertification programs will be conducted through a special process we have developed. While everyone else will take your entire day, we can have you back to work in less than half. Contact us for more information.
Engagement: Our courses are interactive and entertaining. You will learn something new, we promise, and you will enjoy the day. If you don’t learn, or if the day is a waste, let us know. We will send you a pizza (just ignore that Me’n Eds line on your invoice).