Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Anyone who operates a counterbalanced forklift is required to have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training covers a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its cargo utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The blades move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not rotate. Operators who utilize counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training on the specific lift trucks they will be utilizing and in a similar workplace environment.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift driver would be taught about the model he or she will be using. Information includes specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The driver would learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety information regarding the specific lift truck, like for instance how to safely walk around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make certain that the lift truck driver knows how to operate the counterbalanced forklift. This practical training will occur in the same kind of environment in which the driver will be working. The operator would train with the same sorts of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same kind of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Counterbalance lift truck operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training program. Nevertheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training courses should comprise classroom-style training.