Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training consists of a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift can balance its cargo thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades could move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks must have training about the specific forklifts they will be utilizing and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
The forklift operator would learn the basics of the model of forklift they would be using in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts specific things such as load, height and weight capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety information pertaining to the particular forklift, like for example how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the driver would know how to properly operate the counterbalance lift. This practical training course would take place in the same kind of setting in which the driver would be working. The operator will train on the same kind of terrain with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular drivers, refresher training programs should incorporate classroom-style training.