Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck should have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training consists of a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required occasionally so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks could move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training about the specific trucks they will be using and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
The forklift operator would be taught the basics of the model of forklift they will be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info regarding the lift trucks specific things such as weight, load and height capacity. The driver will learn the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, which depends on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the particular lift truck, like how to walk safely around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the operator would know how to correctly use the counterbalance forklift. This practical training program will take place in the same kind of environment wherein the driver will be working. The operator would train on the same kind of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training should incorporate classroom-style training.