Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anybody who uses a counterbalanced forklift is required to receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its load due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines can move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks should receive training about the particular forklifts they will be utilizing and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training Programs
The forklift driver would learn the basics of the model of forklift they would be using in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts specific things such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the particular truck, such as how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make certain that the forklift driver knows how to utilize the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training will take place in the same type of setting in which the driver will be working. The operator would train on the same type of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications which determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training should consist of classroom-style training.