Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training consists of a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed periodically in order 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
The counterbalance lift truck could balance its load because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not pivot. Drivers who use counterbalanced forklifts must receive training on the specific trucks they will be driving and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the lift truck operator would be taught about the model she or he would be operating. Information consists of specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The driver will be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety information pertaining to the particular forklift, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to ensure that the operator will know how to correctly utilize the counterbalance forklift. This practical training program will happen in the same kind of environment in which the driver will be working. The operator would train with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. Nevertheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular operators, refresher training needs to include classroom-style training.