Counterbalance lift truck Training
OSHA does require operators using a counterbalanced lift truck to have received lecture style or classroom training. They also require that a periodic refresher training as well as a supervised driving course is completed. There is no minimum time requirement for the supervised driving or classroom training. Furthermore, there is no frequency mandated for the refresher training either.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalanced forklift's weight is utilized to balance its cargo utilizing its own weight. The lift truck forks are in a fixed position but can be lowered and raised to secure and move loads. The forks run parallel to the forklift's body. OSHA require that individuals who will be operating counterbalanced forklifts on the job be properly trained on the trucks while being in the kind of setting that they would be using them.
Classroom Training
Training either lecture style or in a classroom will offer forklift and operator information for the truck you would be operating. Most training would include certain aspects like the load and weight capacity, height, how to charge or fuel the forklift. It covers how to gauge the time on the engine along with any lift truck specific safety information including where to stand when walking around the truck. Either written and/or oral testing is part of the classroom training. There is no minimum time requirement for the training.
Supervised Driving
The forklift driver needs to learn how to operate the counterbalanced lift truck while being supervised. The supervised driving needs to take place in a place that reflects the environment the driver will be driving in. This atmosphere must include the type of terrain she will be traveling on, have the same pedestrian and vehicle traffic nearby, and similar surrounding structures close by as well. There is no specific minimum number of hours the operator has to drive while being supervised.