Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift is required to receive training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training consists of a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally so as to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift can balance its cargo thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not rotate. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the specific trucks they will be driving and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training
The lift truck driver will be taught the basics of the model of forklift they will be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info regarding the forklifts specific things like height, weight and load capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety procedures regarding the specific lift truck, such as how to safely walk around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make certain that the operator would know how to properly utilize the counterbalance forklift. This practical training will occur in the same kind of environment wherein the driver would be working. The operator would train with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training programs must include classroom-style training.