Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training. Training for these types of industrial equipment includes both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is needed periodically to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a minimum time requirement for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its load thanks to a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks can move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not pivot. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts should have training on the particular forklifts they will be driving and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the forklift driver would be taught about the model he or she will be driving. Information consists of specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, depending on whether it is a gas-powered or battery-powered engine. Safety procedures pertaining to the particular lift truck, like how to safely walk around the forklift, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the forklift operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would occur in the same kind of setting in which the operator would be working. The driver will train with the same kinds of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training program. Nevertheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training courses must include classroom-style training.