Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced forklift should have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training covers a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed periodically to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced lift trucks should have training about the specific forklifts they will be driving and in the same workplace setting.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the lift truck operator will learn about the model she or he will be using. Information includes specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The operator will learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific lift truck, such as how to safely walk around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make certain that the lift truck operator knows how to use the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would occur in the same type of environment in which the operator will be working. The operator will train on the same type of terrain with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
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 has to include classroom-style training.