Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift should have training. Training for these types of industrial machines comprises both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally so as to keep driver 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 could balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines could move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not pivot. Operators who drive counterbalanced lift trucks should have training about the specific forklifts they would be operating and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the lift truck driver will be taught about the model she or he will be using. Information consists of specifications such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator will learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, that depends on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety information regarding the particular lift truck, like for instance how to walk safely around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make sure that the forklift operator knows how to use the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would take place in the same type of setting in which the operator will be working. The driver will train with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced forklift operators, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training must incorporate classroom-style training.