Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Anybody who operates a counterbalanced forklift must have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck could balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines can move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks should receive training on the particular lift trucks they would be utilizing and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift driver would be taught about the model he or she would be using. Information includes specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The driver will be taught the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, that depends on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety information regarding the specific truck, like how to safely walk around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make sure that the lift truck operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would take place in the same kind of environment wherein the driver will be working. The operator would train with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular drivers, refresher training should comprise classroom-style training.