Safety Violations – When we think of Trader Joe’s, we often picture it as the “girl next door” of grocery stores—charming, modest, and pure. However, behind this beloved image lies a recent safety violation that serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper forklift training and certification.
A Pricey Lesson for Trader Joe’s
A Trader Joe’s store in Colorado was recently fined over $216,000 for unsafe forklift operations. Following an inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), it was revealed that the store not only allowed unsafe forklift practices but also failed to provide proper forklift training for its operators and neglected to inspect their forklifts regularly (for the multiple time). As a result, Trader Joe’s faced significant penalties.
In addition to these forklift-related violations, OSHA cited the store for repeatedly blocking and rendering electrical equipment inaccessible with boxes—further demonstrating the store’s lack of adherence to safety protocols.
OSHA’s Mission: Ensuring Compliance with Safety Standards
OSHA made it clear during their investigation and in subsequent media statements that they are committed to enforcing all federal safety standards, including forklift safety training. They will continue to issue citations to any company that fails to comply, putting their employees and others at risk.
Trader Joe’s responded by stating that they have implemented a safety plan and are working to prevent future violations at all of their locations. This incident serves as a reminder that OSHA does not play favorites—if a well-known brand like Trader Joe’s can be penalized for improper forklift training, any company can.
The Critical Need for Forklift Training and Certification
At American Forklift Training, Inc., we cannot stress enough the importance of comprehensive forklift training and OSHA-compliant certification. Our hands-on training program is designed to ensure that operators fully understand how to safely operate a forklift, covering essential topics such as:
- Adherence to safety regulations to minimize workplace accidents, injuries, and fatalities
- Inspection and maintenance protocols
- Engine and motor operation
- Control and instrumentation
- Proper loading and unloading techniques
- Steering, maneuvering, stacking, and tiering
- Tractor-trailer loading and unloading
Protect Your Business: Ensure Proper Forklift Certification
For companies employing forklift operators, this blog should serve as a reminder to review your forklift safety protocols and ensure that all operators are properly trained and certified. At American Forklift Training, Inc., we have over 15 years of experience providing on-site certification and training. Our programs have helped companies avoid costly repairs by correcting improper forklift operation, saving them thousands of dollars in the process.
Our OSHA-compliant training program is designed with your convenience in mind. We bring the training to your location, so your employees don’t have to travel off-site. Our affordable forklift certification program offers a comprehensive yet cost-effective curriculum to quickly train and certify your employees, no matter the size of your team.
Forklift Operators: Stay Certified and Safe
If you’re a forklift operator, this is your reminder to ensure that you are properly trained and certified. If you need a refresher course, don’t hesitate to contact us. As more companies face fines for improper forklift operations, this is an opportunity for you to highlight your certification and stand out as a qualified professional.
At American Forklift Training, Inc., we are proud to partner with hundreds of Southern California agencies that seek certified forklift operators. Upon receiving or renewing your certification with us, we will share your information with companies and agencies hiring in your area.
Get Certified Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your forklift operators are trained and certified according to OSHA standards. Contact American Forklift Training, Inc. today to learn more about our training programs and how we can help you achieve your forklift certification and training goals.