Counterbalance forklift Training
OSHA does require operators utilizing a counterbalanced forklift to have received classroom or lecture style training. They additionally require that a periodic refresher training as well as a supervised driving course is finished. There is no minimum time requirement for the supervised driving or classroom training. Additionally, there is no frequency mandated for the refresher training either.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalanced lift truck's weight is utilized to balance its cargo utilizing its own weight. The forklift forks are in a fixed position but could be lowered and raised to secure and move loads. The forks run parallel to the body of the forklift. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration require that drivers who would be utilizing counterbalanced forklifts on the job be trained on the trucks while being in the kind of setting which they would be using them.
Classroom Training
Training either lecture style or in a classroom would provide forklift and operator information for the truck you would be utilizing. Most training will cover several aspects such as the weight and load capacity, height, how to fuel or charge the lift truck. It covers how to gauge the time on the engine along with any forklift specific safety information including where to stand when walking around the truck. Either oral and/or written testing is part of the classroom training. There is no minimum time requirement for the training.
Supervised Driving
The lift truck operator needs to learn how to operate the counterbalanced forklift while being supervised. The supervised driving has to take place in an area which reflects the environment the driver will be driving in. This atmosphere should include the type of terrain she will be traveling on, have the same surrounding structures close by, and similar vehicle and pedestrian traffic nearby also. There is no required minimum number of hours the driver needs to drive while being supervised.