Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Anybody who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training includes a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck can balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines could move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not rotate. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks must have training about the specific lift trucks they would be driving and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the lift truck driver would learn about the model she or he will be operating. Information comprises specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific forklift, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to make certain that the operator will know how to properly drive the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training course would happen in the same kind of environment in which the driver will be working. The operator will train with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced forklift drivers, 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.