I have, since 2004, asked the same question of OSHA, NIOSH, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States. Although the various government representatives assure me that stats do exist, they also assure me that they are to be found with a word search at the Bureau of Labor Statistics' web site. I assure you that NO USEFUL "Powered Industrial Truck-related training" STATISTICS EXIST AT ANY OF THESE AGENCIES. I would be delighted if someone...anyone... would prove me wrong in the matter!

I have only one source for useful information in regard to training-related forklift statistics. It is the proprietary National LIFTOR data base that has been investigating training interventions since 1985, on behalf of client subscribers. The National LIFTOR System relies fundamentally on the data that comes from our ongoing study. This data, gives us the basis for continuous improvement in the training-related interventions of LIFTOR.

For example, based upon our data, we have come to important conclusions such as:

1) Classroom based instruction is almost a total waste of time and may even increase, rather than decrease, the risk of injury among operators...no matter how high the quality of the instructor, the audio-visuals, or the in-classroom discussions, and

2) Pencil-and-paper (or computer-based) tests, quizzes, skill checks or assessments are typically and almost totally useless for inferring the skills of an operator. Further, pencil-and-paper tests are too superficial to have mush to do with actual on-job safety. Instead of pencil-and-paper tests, or the like, a content valid and reliable on-truck performance test (also known as a work sample. high-fidelity simulation, etc.) is most useful in predicting the incidence of serious injury, and can allow for accurate diagnosis of the operator's skill repertory. Conclusions like these have caused me to alter and improve the affects of my training and consultation on risk of serious operator injury.

And, yes, we actually follow our own data-based conclusions, even when some of them fly in the face of conventional training practices. I for one, have never regretted doing so, because I have seen the long-term affects on the productivity and safety of operators. Finally, I have also found that OSHA and NIOSH agree with the LIFTOR approach.

For a look at some of the early statistics and conclusions we shared with OSHA during the hearing on the latest OSHA rules on training, surf to OSHA DOT gov. Then, search docket #S-008. Then, look for Exhibit #7-60.

Best wishes,

Joe Monaco
President, Monaco Group, Inc.
www DOT LIFTOR DOT COM