Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training. Training for these types of industrial machines consists of both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally so as to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not rotate. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training on the specific trucks they would be using and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training Programs
The forklift operator will be taught the basics of the model of lift truck they would be utilizing in classroom training. They would learn info regarding the forklifts particular things like load, height and weight capacity. The driver will be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures pertaining to the particular lift truck, like how to walk safely around the forklift, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would make certain that the forklift operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would take place in the same type of setting wherein the operator will be working. The operator would train on the same type of terrain with the same kinds of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Although OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications which determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular drivers, refresher training should incorporate classroom-style training.