Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training consists of a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally in order 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 lift truck balances its cargo with a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts should have training on the particular lift trucks they will be driving and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
The forklift driver would be taught the basics of the model of lift truck they will be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts particular things such as weight, load and height capacity. The operator will learn the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific lift truck, like for example how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make sure that the forklift operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would take place in the same type of environment wherein the driver will be working. The operator would train with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Counterbalance lift truck operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training program. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training must include classroom-style training.