Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who uses a counterbalanced forklift is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training includes a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed occasionally so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on 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 blades do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the particular lift trucks they would be operating and in the same workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the lift truck operator would learn about the model he or she would be operating. Information comprises specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The operator will learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific lift truck, like how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to ensure that the driver will know how to correctly drive the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training course will occur in the same kind of environment in which the driver will be working. The driver would train on the same type of terrain with the same sorts of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training program. Nevertheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular operators, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.