Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed periodically in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift can balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks can move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training about the specific trucks they would be driving and in the same workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift driver would learn about the model he or she will be operating. Information comprises specifications like height, weight and load capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the specific lift truck, like for instance how to safely walk around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the lift truck operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would happen in the same type of setting in which the operator will be working. The driver will train with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Though OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular operators, refresher training has to consist of classroom-style training.