Flagger/Forklift Training Impact

Since 2023, the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance (LSWA) has supported hundreds of community members in obtaining their forklift and flagger certifications. To date, LSWA has supported 26 forklift cohorts and 7 flagger cohorts, contributing to the instruction, equipment rental, translating services, and materials for high-quality hands on instruction. Over the course of 33 classes, 226 individuals received their Forklift Operators Wallet card & Certification, and 64 individuals received their National Flagger Certification. Each class was hosted at Saftey Resources located in Wicomico County. Participants received 6 hours of instruction, divided into two parts, classroom education and hands-on experience.

Course learning goals included:

Forklift Certification Training:
• Name the proper uses for different types of forklifts
• Explain the importance of forklift stability
• Describe operational procedures for forklifts, including load handling
• Prevent forklift accidents through safety procedures and practices
• State the importance of regular forklift inspections and maintenance
• List OSHA and government resources that support worker safety

National Flagger Certification Training:
• Explain the importance of a flagger in maintaining safe and healthy roadwork zones
• Summarize the typical requirements for flagger certification and industry best practices for recertification
• Demonstrate the proper use of a stop/slow paddle for communicating effectively with motorists
• List the components of a temporary traffic control (TTC) zone
• Recognize the essential tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) for flagging operations, including how and when to use them
• Evaluate a hazardous traffic-control scenario and apply your training to recommend the proper corrective action

LSWA’s goal in funding these courses have been to support the community by offering training opportunities that help individuals enter career pathways on the Lower Eastern Shore. By covering the cost of training and certification, LSWA removed a key financial barrier for all of the participants. While there are no future cohorts scheduled, LSWA is actively evaluating how to best utilize funding to bring these programs back in a way that continues to meet community needs.

If you have further questions about how our Flagger and Forklift class impacts our community, please email us at info@lswa.org