Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anyone who uses a counterbalanced lift truck should have training. Training for these kinds of industrial vehicles comprises both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed periodically 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 can balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Tines can move down and up parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks should receive training about the specific trucks they would be utilizing and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training Programs
The lift truck operator will learn the basics of the model of forklift they will be using in classroom training. They would learn info about the lift trucks particular things such as weight, load and height capacity. The operator will be taught the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety information pertaining to the particular lift truck, such as how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the lift truck driver knows how to operate the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training program would take place in the same kind of setting wherein the operator will be working. The driver would train with the same types of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced forklift operators, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular operators, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.