Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck must have training. Training for these types of industrial vehicles includes both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required periodically so as 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 is able to balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks could move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not pivot. Operators who drive counterbalanced lift trucks should have training on the particular forklifts they will be driving and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift driver will be taught about the model she or he would be driving. Information consists of specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The driver 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 truck, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would ensure the lift truck driver knows how to use the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would take place in the same kind of environment in which the driver would be working. The driver would train on the same kind of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance lift truck drivers are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. Nonetheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver needs this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training should consist of classroom-style training.