Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift is required to receive training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training includes a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required occasionally in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load with a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the specific trucks they would be operating and in a similar workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
The forklift operator will be taught the basics of the model of forklift they would be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts particular things like load, height and weight capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, which depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures pertaining to the particular lift truck, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the operator will know how to correctly utilize the counterbalance forklift. This practical training course will happen in the same kind of setting in which the operator would be working. The operator will train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training program. Nevertheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator needs this training. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training courses should include classroom-style training.