In this Summer 2006 IVES Update Newsletter edition features the article “Walk It Like You Talk It”. We’ll also cover a question on scissor lift operator certification, practical evaluation scheduling, ANSI A92.5 revisions, instructor recertification, accident reports and more!
Walk it Like You Talk It
“Do as I say, not as I do.” You’ve probably heard this line before or, heaven forbid, maybe you’ve even uttered the phrase yourself (and tsk-tsk on you if you have!). This tired, old cliché is the classic retort of the trainer who has been caught doing something that he/she teaches others not to do. I call it the “hypocrite’s mantra,” because in my humble opinion, doing something that you teach others not to is just flat-out hypocritical.
Sorry if that offends you. If it’s any consolation, I am certainly no stranger to hypocritical behavior…“been there, done that,” as they say. What I have not and will not do, however, is make excuses for it, because there is no excuse for it.
Every time I hear a trainer (of all people) give some line of bull as an excuse for unsafe behavior like, “That works in the classroom but not in the real world,” or “It’s not practical to expect safe operation of X equipment 100% of the time,” I cringe and think, “This guy’s in the wrong line of work.”
We are trainers; we know how much effort is needed to show people the right way to do things and provide the rationalization for it all, as well. We also know the benefits that result from doing things right, not the least of which is getting to go home alive, with all your parts present and accounted for. Knowing all that is involved and what is at stake, can we really be willing to trash it all because it’s the “real” world or because we believe it’s not “practical”? After all, people get injured and killed in the real world and how practical is that?
The moment any of us starts trying to justify unsafe behavior, we need to step back, take a long look in the mirror, and honestly ask ourselves if we are in the right line of work. As the Sunday morning television evangelists like to say, “You gotta’ believe!” Believe that what you are doing is the right thing to do, and it’s worth sticking with.
In your capacity as a trainer, you are the benchmark, the reference point for everyone else, whether you like it or not. I know it’s a drag. I know it’s tough being under a microscope, but it’s part of the job. The bottom line is, if you don’t buy in and walk it like you talk it, how can you possibly expect others to?
Like I said before, I have been in the unfortunate position of doing something wrong like jumping off a machine without using a three-point dismount or grabbing the overhead guard post while backing up. There are always more than enough witnesses to call me on it when it happens, but I never make excuses or attempt to justify it. “You’re right,” I will usually say, “I got in a rush and cut corners without even thinking about it. I will have to take care not to do that again.”
The truth is, over the years I have managed to cut out all of the bad habits I had for years before I was officially trained by forcing myself to stay aware of the right way to do things, then to actually do them. Having throngs of vocal witnesses to “help” me stay aware over the years didn’t hurt, but in the end they have held me to it whenever I got lazy. I can honestly say now that I don’t just talk the talk, but I walk it, as well. And it feels good.
Rob Vetter, Chief Instructor
Ives Training Group
Riverside Trades Training & Career Centre
IVES acknowledges and salutes the efforts of the Mission School District’s Riverside Trades Training & Career Centre. Riverside is a student-focused educational facility designed to provide learners with the skills necessary to enter the workforce, trades training, or post-secondary institutions with confidence.
“It is my job to prepare students for the industry,” says Riverside’s warehouse manager and program administrator, Rick Harrison.
“One of the main components of the warehouse program sit eh safe use of material handling equipment, and for this I rely heavily on IVES publications because they are user friendly and accurate, and I know I can depend on IVES for the service that my school requires. Our philosophy at Riverside is about achieving goals and improving. In order to do this, we require outstanding service from our business providers. And from previous performance, it is apparent that we and IVES share the same philosophy.”
IVES Technical Director, Rob Vetter says, “I think Riverside is doing the community and the future workforce a great service by getting these people trained and up to speed before they enter the workforce, avoiding them getting behind the wheel and possibly hurting someone.” Vetter adds, “I know Rick Harrison personally and I know the type of dedication and integrity he brings to his work. Riverside has a real asset in him and this program.”
Ask Bob
Bob,
Does a scissor lift operator need to be certified? We have two scissor lifts and I don’t think anyone who uses them has ever been trained.
Dale
Dear Dale,
Scissor lift operators do not need to be certified, but they do need to be trained! Regulations don’t contain specific criteria for training aerial lift operators, but they do contain references to ANSI/SIA standards (and CSA standards in Canada) with specific training requirements. In an inspection/investigation, employers would need to provide documented evidence of compliance with those standards.
Hi Bob,
How much practice time would you recommend be given before an evaluation is done?
Katie
Dear Katie,
There is no finite amount of time that should be given. Personally, as soon as an operator can demonstrate that he or she can do the things that I want them to do, then it’s time. This can range from 10 minutes to 10 days, so perhaps I can answer your question better by telling you when I would NOT perform an evaluation, which is before the operator is ready for one.
What’s Your Instructor IQ?
Test your knowledge by answering the following:
- The greatest asset you have in performing your instructional duties is:
a) Equipment knowledge.
b) Ability to communicate.
c) Lesson plan.
- Lifting and/or hoisting equipment utilize ____________ to multiply the force applied to move a load.
a) Pressure.
b) Counterweight.
c) Leverage.
Check out the next edition of the Ives Update for the answers. Good luck!
Answers to “What’s Your Instructor IQ?” (Spring Edition 2006)
- What are the conditions under which a steering wheel knob may be used on powered mobile equipment?
- A steering wheel knob may be used on powered mobile equipment*:
- If the unit has power steering.
- If the knob is the “mushroom” type that fits in the palm of your hand.
- If no part of the knob extends beyond the outer diameter of the steering wheel.
* Regulations may vary from region to region.
- After correcting a trainee that made a mistake during a practical training session, the trainer should:
a) Have the trainee park and secure the equipment.
b) Ask the trainee to repeat the task.
c) Document the incident and report it to a supervisor.
IVES Team Profile: Susan Carlson
Susan is IVES’ longest serving full-time team member. Her first day with us was November 1, 1995 when she was hired to perform reception duties, data entry and other duties as required. As time passed and her many abilities were recognized, the phrase “other duties as required” became her specialty. Since then, Susan has at one time or another been involved with every aspect of the business, from order packing and processing, shipping of orders and program materials, inventory, assembly of program materials, completion of program documentation, training program coordination, and even sales.
Currently, she is our Custom Training Program Coordinator, which involves facilitating the delivery of custom (on-site) training programs by arranging shipment of training materials and making travel arrangements for our Staff Instructors. Susan also administers and maintains our Train Trak program, database and client contact lists, while still keeping her hand in order processing and packing, as well as general reception.
Away from the office, Susan enjoys horseback riding, gardening “with limited success”, reading and trying new restaurants.
Susan has seen a lot of changes and developments in her time with IVES and says she has always been impressed with the professionalism and integrity of all the IVES people, regardless of their position in the company. She adds, “Thank you to all our clients for making my various duties over the years an interesting and valuable experience.” I think I speak for all of us when I say, “Thank YOU, Susan, the pleasure has been ours.”
ANSI/SIA A92.5 Revised
The new ANSI/SIA A92.5-2006 standard for Boom-Supported Elevating Work Platforms was published February 28, 2006 and the effective date for compliance is August 28, 2006.
Many changes to the standard were made to bring the language in line with that of ANSI 92.6-1999 Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms. The new standard has been expanded considerably, with additional detail related to familiarization and training of operators, as well as responsibilities associated with the sale of a machine. For example, now trainers “shall” provide evidence of training to individuals who request it. In addition, a section has been added outlining responsibilities for brokers.
You Could WIN a Trip for Four to DISNEYLAND!!
As IVES turns 25 this September, we would like to take the opportunity to thank the most important contributor to our success…YOU! You have made it possible for us to establish a reputation as the premiere provider within the heavy equipment training industry. To show our gratitude, we are offering an opportunity for you and three friends or family members to win a trip to that most magical of places, Disneyland! Here’s how you can enter and WIN! When you register for any Train-the-Trainer Program or Instructor Re-certification Program, or when you call to place an order for training materials, have your e-mail address handy. We simply opt you in to our new e-mail update program, which will provide you with the Ives Update by e-mail (as well as other important news about changes in regulations) and you will automatically be entered to WIN!!
The prize includes airfare, three nights in the fabulous Disneyland Hotel, and three full days of fun in the Magical Kingdom!! Call IVES today to get your entry in! Note: Contest draw date is November 17, 2006.
Accident Reports
Accident Kills Forklift Operator
An industrial accident killed an area resident who was operating a stand-up forklift when she backed into a metal gate, causing “crushing injuries.” A mother of four and a grandmother of three, she “meant everything to everybody,” said her son-in-law. He and his wife have young children, ages 4, 2 and 9 months. “If one of our kids was sick, she was there to help,” he said of the victim. The Chief Operating Officer at the warehouse said the victim was a “relatively recent hire” and had been working there for about five months. He says the warehouse has never had a fatal accident before. State police and the coroner’s office are investigating and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration has been notified.
[As is usually the case, the effects of a fatality reach far beyond the victim. – Ed.]
Backhoe Operator Crushed
A man was killed in a construction accident in which he was operating a backhoe in some woods behind the building when the machine flipped. He was thrown from the machine and it then rolled on top of him, killing him. Sources said that the backhoe had a seatbelt, but they don’t think the operator was wearing it. OSHA has been called in to investigate.
[There’s a reason for everything… especially seat belts. – Ed.]
Instructor Recertification… What’s the Deal?
As you know, IVES requires you to re-certify as an instructor every three years in order for you to keep your credentials and status as a certified instructor with us current. What you may not know is that there are no regulatory requirements to do so. In fact, regulations do not require trainers of forklift, aerial lift and/or loader operators to be certified at all.
What the regulations do require is for a trainer to be qualified by way of knowledge, training, and experience to train operators and evaluate their competence. As it relates to regulatory compliance, a trainer is not required to have any formal training as a trainer, but it sure helps if you can show you have some in the event of an investigation.
So that’s why you should get certified as an instructor, but why re-certify? Let me tell you:
- Keep your credentials with IVES current. We can attest to the validity of your training to anybody that asks, but if we haven’t seen you for a number of years, we can’t.
- Update your knowledge of developments in regulations, technical information, instructional techniques, etc. that have occurred since you were originally trained.
- Get advice and information to help you deal with common and not-so-common obstacles that you may face in delivering your training classes.
- Get a general refresher on all aspects of heavy equipment operator training.
Many of the instructors who attend instructor re-certification programs tell us that it is a worthwhile venture and they are happy they came. If your re-certification date is drawing near and you would like a little more information, go to www.ivestraining.com or contact us by phone. We hope to see you at an instructor re-certification program soon.
GISHAB’s Rodeo Season Kicks Off
It’s that time of year again when the Washington State Governor’s Industrial Safety and Health Advisory Board (GISHAB) holds their annual forklift rodeos.
On Saturday, June 3 the ninth season got underway in Pasco WA. with the Central Regional event, and what an event it was. Twenty-eight competitors turned out to compete for $600.00 in prize money and, of course, those all-important bragging rights.
Event coordinator Mark Ribich of the Boeing Company remarked, “I haven’t seen a turnout like this for an event east of the mountains in a number of years.” Ribich went on to thank all of the event supporters, including IVES, which provides the judging, testing and course setup, for making the event such a success.
This year, Lamb Weston and Columbia Colstor fielded a strong group of competitors who collectively captured eight of the top ten spots, five of which will move on to the state championship to be held in Spokane this September.
When the smoke cleared, it was Julian Torres of Lamb Weston who took home top honors and $300.00, with Kurt Weidner of Heningsen Richland taking second place ($200.00), and Manuel Serrano with Con-Agra Foods (Lamb Weston) coming in third ($100.00).
With two more regional events to be held in Spokane on July 29 and Seattle on August 19, it looks like competition in this summer’s rodeo season is heating up!
If you would like to register or find out more about how you can get involved with GISHAB rodeos, go to www.ivestraining.com and click on “Trade Shows and Special Events,” then click on the event you would like to know more about.
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