Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Anyone who uses a counterbalanced lift truck should receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training consists of a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically in order 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
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its cargo utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The blades do not rotate. Drivers who use counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the particular forklifts they would be driving and in a similar workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the lift truck driver will be taught about the model he or she will be driving. Information includes specifications such as height, weight and load capacity. The driver will learn the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety information regarding the particular truck, like how to walk safely around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make sure that the forklift driver knows how to utilize the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training program would occur in the same type of environment in which the operator would be working. The driver will train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Although OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced forklift drivers, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular operators, refresher training courses must incorporate classroom-style training.