Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift should have training. Training for these kinds of industrial equipment consists of both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed occasionally to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck is able to balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should receive training on the specific trucks they will be operating and in the same workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the lift truck operator would be taught about the model he or she will be driving. Information includes specifications like height, weight and load capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, which depends on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety information pertaining to the particular forklift, such as how to safely walk around the forklift, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make sure that the operator will know how to properly drive the counterbalance forklift. This practical training program will happen in the same type of setting in which the operator 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 similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training programs must comprise classroom-style training.