Counterbalance Forklift Training
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who uses a counterbalanced forklift is required to receive training. Training for these kinds of industrial equipment consists of both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally 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 thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Blades could move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The forks do not pivot. Operators who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks should have training on the specific forklifts they would be using and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift operator will learn about the model she or he would be using. Information comprises specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The driver will be taught the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures pertaining to the specific truck, like for example how to walk safely around the lift truck, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would ensure the lift truck operator knows how to operate the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training program would occur in the same kind of environment wherein the driver would be working. The operator would train with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications that determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training must consist of classroom-style training.