Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anybody who uses a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training. Training for these types of industrial vehicles comprises both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required occasionally to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its load thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades can move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The blades do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the specific trucks they will be operating and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training
The forklift driver will be taught the basics of the model of lift truck they would be using in classroom training. They would learn info about the lift trucks particular things like weight, load and height capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular truck, like how to safely walk around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make certain that the lift truck operator knows how to operate the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training program will take place in the same type of setting in which the driver would be working. The operator would train on the same kind of terrain with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training program. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular operators, refresher training programs has to consist of classroom-style training.