Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck must receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training includes a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required periodically in order to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its load with a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts must receive training on the particular forklifts they will be driving and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the lift truck driver would learn about the model she or he would be utilizing. Information consists of specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The driver will learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety information regarding the particular truck, such as how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make certain that the forklift operator knows how to operate the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training course will happen in the same type of setting in which the operator will be working. The operator will train with the same sorts of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Counterbalance lift truck drivers are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training courses should comprise classroom-style training.