Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced forklift is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training consists of a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck could balance its load due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts must have training on the particular forklifts they would be driving and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the lift truck driver will be taught about the model she or he will be operating. Information consists of specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The operator will be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, which depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety information pertaining to the specific lift truck, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the lift truck operator knows how to operate the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training will happen in the same type of setting in which the driver will be working. The operator would train on the same kind of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Though OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training programs has to incorporate classroom-style training.