Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally in order 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 forklift can balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks could move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not pivot. Operators who use counterbalanced lift trucks must have training on the specific forklifts they will be driving and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training Courses
The lift truck driver will learn the basics of the model of forklift they will be using in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts particular things such as weight, load and height capacity. The operator would learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures regarding the particular lift truck, like for example how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make sure that the forklift driver knows how to use the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would occur in the same type of setting wherein the operator will be working. The operator will train on the same kind of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced forklift operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular operators, refresher training must include classroom-style training.