To train or not to train
May 26, 2010
By Doug Westlake
Manager – Rentals & Operator Training
During these trying economic times certain cost cutting measures need to be evaluated to ensure a positive bottom line. One measure that seems to come up is whether or not to train forklift operators. Although training can be time consuming and costly, there are many benefits that help not only individual employees, but also the company as a whole.
When trying to decide whether to train, forget the fact that it is the law in British Columbia. If there is an injury or, even worse a fatality, and the operator is not properly trained, WorkSafeBC can hold the company to full liability with costs so high it would devastate many businesses. 70% of all compensable injury claims are directly or indirectly related to the absence of training or improper training. The cost to train your operators today is very small compared to the possible hidden costs that come with not training them.
A good training program produces knowledgeable, confident operators, reduces workplace accidents and leads to more productivity on the job. In addition, more efficient operators can lower your operating costs. That’s because skilled operators are less prone to accidents that cause injuries and damage property. Without proper instruction your assets can be depreciated from untrained operators.
Properly trained, safe and productive forklift operators can lift a company’s credibility and good name. Training shows your operators that their safety and longevity is extremely important which increases employee morale.
So, to train or not to train? It’s easy to see! The small upfront cost of proper training far outweighs the highly variable cost that is associated with not training.