Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anybody who uses a counterbalanced forklift should receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift could balance its load thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades could move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts should receive training on the particular lift trucks they would be utilizing and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training
The forklift operator would learn the basics of the model of lift truck they will be using in classroom training. They would learn info regarding the forklifts specific things such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator will be taught the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, depending on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the specific truck, like for example how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to ensure that the operator would know how to properly use the counterbalance lift. This practical training program would occur in the same kind of setting wherein the driver would be working. The driver will train on the same kind of terrain with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training must incorporate classroom-style training.