Counterbalance Forklift Training Programs
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift should receive training. Training for these types of industrial vehicles comprises both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is necessary periodically in order to keep driver skills up to date. OSHA does not specify a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance forklift is able to balance its cargo because of a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks can move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced forklifts should receive training on the particular lift trucks they will be using and in a similar workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the forklift driver would learn about the model he or she would be using. Information includes specifications such as weight, load and height capacity. The driver will be taught the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, which depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety measures regarding the particular truck, like how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make sure that the lift truck operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training course would occur in the same kind of setting in which the driver would be working. The driver will train on the same kind of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training program. Nonetheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver needs this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training must incorporate classroom-style training.