Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who uses a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training. Training for these types of industrial machinery comprises both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally to keep driver 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. Blades could move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not pivot. Operators who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should receive training on the specific lift trucks they would be using and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the lift truck operator will learn about the model she or he would be operating. Information consists of specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the particular truck, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make sure that the driver will know how to correctly drive the counterbalance lift. This practical training would happen in the same kind of setting wherein the operator will be working. The driver will train with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular operators, refresher training programs must incorporate classroom-style training.