Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who uses a counterbalanced forklift should receive training. Training for these types of industrial vehicles includes both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required periodically in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load using a counterbalance built into the truck. The blades move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not pivot. Operators who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks should receive training on the specific trucks they would be operating and in a similar workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the lift truck driver would be taught about the model she or he will be operating. Information consists of specifications such as weight, load and height capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, which depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety information pertaining to the specific forklift, like for example how to walk safely around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make sure that the forklift operator knows how to use the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training will happen in the same type of environment wherein the driver will be working. The driver would train on the same kind of terrain with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular drivers, refresher training has to consist of classroom-style training.