Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Anybody who uses a counterbalanced forklift is required to 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 to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck is able to balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines can move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced forklifts must have training on the specific trucks they would be using and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
The lift truck driver would be taught the basics of the model of lift truck they will be using in classroom training. They will learn info about the lift trucks specific things like height, weight and load capacity. The driver will learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety procedures regarding the particular lift truck, like for instance how to walk safely around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to make sure that the operator would know how to properly utilize the counterbalance lift. This practical training course will take place in the same type of environment wherein the operator would be working. The operator will train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Although OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training has to include classroom-style training.