Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck should receive training. Training for these types of industrial equipment comprises both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed periodically so as to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift can balance its load thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not rotate. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks must have training about the particular forklifts they would be operating and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift driver would learn about the model he or she will be using. Information includes specifications such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator will learn the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, which depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular truck, like for instance how to safely walk around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make sure that the driver will know how to correctly operate the counterbalance forklift. This practical training would occur in the same kind of setting wherein the operator will be working. The operator will train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training must consist of classroom-style training.