Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Anybody who uses a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary periodically so as to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck is able to balance its load due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks can move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training about the specific lift trucks they will be operating and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift operator would learn about the model she or he would be driving. Information comprises specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular truck, like how to safely walk around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to ensure that the driver will know how to properly operate the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training will occur in the same type of setting wherein the driver would be working. The driver would train with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced forklift drivers, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training should comprise classroom-style training.