Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to have training. Training for these kinds of industrial machines consists of both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is necessary periodically so as 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
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its cargo with a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not rotate. Operators who drive counterbalanced forklifts must have training on the particular lift trucks they will be using and in the same workplace environment.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the forklift operator would learn about the model she or he will be operating. Information consists of specifications like weight, load and height capacity. The operator will learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, that depends on whether it is a battery-powered or gas-powered engine. Safety information pertaining to the specific forklift, such as how to walk safely around the forklift, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will ensure the lift truck operator knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would take place in the same type of environment wherein the driver would be working. The driver will train with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Refresher Training
Though OSHA requires regular refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck operators, there are no specifications determining the frequency of refresher training or its contents. However, for regular drivers, refresher training courses has to comprise classroom-style training.