I have to agree with Safety Guy in that the on-truck evaluation, test, skills check, etc. is a useful tool when it renders a simple decision of Pass or Fail. Using the general education method of ratings, point systems or "percent correct" for on-truck operator skills evaluation makes us look silly at least and irresponsible at worst. Here is why:


Assuming that our on-truck evaluation is valid and NOT superficial, we are testing operator skills against objective criterion measures essential for success on-the-job (We do NOT test for unnecessary behavior, as that would make for the silly part).


So, if during an evaluation, the "operator put his hand outside the overhead guard" we are morally and ethically obligated to DENY his certification for that attempt. Then, until such time that he can practice the correct "keep-body-parts-inside" behavior, and then pass the item during a subsequent attempt of that test item, he/she will NOT PASS the evaluation. To do otherwise is the equivalent of saying that either our on-truck evaluation of "keep-body-parts-inside" behavior is:


1. superficial (which it is NOT), or

2. we are allowing operators to sally-forth on their job knowing full well that they do NOT have one of the ESSENTIAL safe behaviors in their repertory of operating skills.


That would be the irresponsible part...because the lack of skill could result in severe personal injury of body parts and/or death to the operator.


So, what should we do in the future to improve our contribution to safe forklift operating? Learning more about effective "Evaluation" or "Testing" practices might be a good place to go for those serious about improving their contributions to our industry. Some information about pass/fail testing can be had for free at:


WWW dot LIFTOR dot COM (Ask George);

WWW dot OFCCP dot GOV (Content Validity/Selection Testing); and

Also, you can purchase at WWW dot ASSE dot ORG - ANSI Z490.1-2009 "Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety Health and Environmental Training."


Best wishes,

Joe