Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck should receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load with a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts must receive training about the particular forklifts they will be driving and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the lift truck operator will learn about the model she or he would be using. Information comprises specifications such as height, weight and load capacity. The operator would learn the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, that depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular forklift, such as how to safely walk around the forklift, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the forklift driver knows how to operate the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training program will occur in the same type of setting in which 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 pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced forklift operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.