Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training consists of a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its load using a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts should receive training about the particular lift trucks they would be driving and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift operator would be taught about the model he or she will be utilizing. Information consists of specifications like height, weight and load capacity. The driver will learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety procedures pertaining to the specific forklift, like for example how to walk safely around the forklift, will be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make certain that the operator will know how to correctly operate the counterbalance lift. This practical training would occur in the same kind of environment in which the driver will be working. The driver will train on the same kind of terrain with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications which determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training should comprise classroom-style training.