Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who uses a counterbalanced lift truck should have training. Training for these kinds of industrial machinery comprises both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically in order to keep operator 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 can balance its load because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks could move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks must have training on the particular trucks they will be operating and in the same workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift operator would be taught about the model he or she will be operating. Information comprises specifications such as load, height and weight 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 measures regarding the specific forklift, like for example how to walk safely around the forklift, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the driver would know how to properly utilize the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training program would take place in the same type of environment in which the driver would be working. The operator will train with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
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 a driver needs this training. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.