u/Alright_Alright_All

Help settle an argument. My understanding is that OSHA requires employers to train their employees before authorizing them to use aerial lifts, but what is covered in the training is not specifically stated in the regulations and there is no refresher training frequency requirement (I.e. every 3 years). Also, after training they are not “certified”operators. While Industrial truck training topics are specifically referenced in the regulations, as well as operators must be evaluated every three years and it states that employers “certify” operators.
Technically I believe (although would not put this into practice) that an employee could read the entire operators manual of an aerial lift, the employer gives them a knowledge test and then evaluates their practical operation of the lift to satisfy OSHA training and authorization requirements. Again, I would never recommend an employee read the operator Manuel as their only source of safety training.
Also, I believe by having written documentation of a forklift operator being evaluated at least 1x in a 3 year’s period technically satisfies OSHA requirements and attending a training class every 3 years is not required. Also, let’s assume that forklift operator had no accidents and displayed safe operations at all times.
Am I right?