Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anybody who operates a counterbalanced lift truck must have training. Training for these types of industrial machinery comprises both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed occasionally in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load using a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks should have training about the specific forklifts they would be operating and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training Programs
The lift truck operator would learn the basics of the model of forklift they would be using in classroom training. They would learn info about the lift trucks particular things like load, height and weight capacity. The operator will be taught the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, depending on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety information pertaining to the particular truck, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make sure that the forklift operator knows how to utilize the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training program will take place in the same type of setting wherein the driver will be working. The driver would train with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training course. Nonetheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular operators, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.