Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Anybody who operates a counterbalanced lift truck should have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training consists of a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load using a counterbalance built into the truck. The blades move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not rotate. Drivers who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training on the particular forklifts they will be utilizing and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training Courses
The forklift driver will learn the basics of the model of lift truck they will be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info regarding the lift trucks specific things such as height, weight and load capacity. The driver will learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, which depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety information regarding the particular forklift, like for instance how to walk safely around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to make sure that the driver would know how to correctly utilize the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training program would occur in the same type of environment wherein the driver would be working. The operator will train on the same type of terrain with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift drivers are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training programs should include classroom-style training.