Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift is required to have training, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training consists of a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary occasionally to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines could move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not pivot. Operators who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should have training on the specific trucks they will be driving and in a similar workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training
The lift truck driver will learn the basics of the model of forklift they will be using in classroom training. They will learn info regarding the lift trucks particular things like weight, load and height capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular forklift, like for example how to safely walk around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would ensure the forklift operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training would happen in the same type of environment wherein the driver will be working. The driver would train on the same kind of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Programs
Counterbalance lift truck operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training courses should incorporate classroom-style training.