Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training includes a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed occasionally to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck is able to balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines could move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The blades do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks should have training on the particular forklifts they would be utilizing and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift operator would learn about the model he or she will be driving. Information includes specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The operator will learn the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific forklift, like how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the operator will know how to correctly drive the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training course will occur in the same type of environment wherein the operator would be working. The operator would train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training program. Nonetheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training should comprise classroom-style training.