Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck should have training. Training for these types of industrial vehicles includes both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its load utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not pivot. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced forklifts must receive training about the particular lift trucks they will be using and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift driver would be taught about the model she or he will be operating. Information includes specifications such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator would learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures regarding the particular forklift, like for example how to walk safely around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to make sure that the operator would know how to properly operate the counterbalance forklift. This practical training program will take place in the same type of setting wherein the operator will be working. The driver would train with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Although 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 operators, refresher training must incorporate classroom-style training.