Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anyone who uses a counterbalanced forklift is required to receive training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies. Training covers a combination of hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required periodically so as to keep driver 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 load with a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts should have training on the particular trucks they will be utilizing and in a similar workplace setting.
Classroom Training
In classroom training, the forklift driver will be taught about the model she or he would be driving. Information consists of specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The driver would be taught the basics of charging or fueling the lift truck, which depends on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures regarding the specific forklift, like how to walk safely around the forklift, will be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to make certain that the operator would know how to correctly operate the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training would take place in the same kind of environment in which the operator would be working. The driver would train with the same types of surrounding buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Although OSHA requires periodic refresher training for counterbalanced lift truck drivers, there are no specifications which determine the frequency of refresher training or its contents. Then again, for regular operators, refresher training courses must include classroom-style training.