Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, anyone who operates a counterbalanced forklift should have training. Training for these kinds of industrial vehicles includes both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed periodically in order 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 load utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move down and up parallel to the body of the truck. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts must receive training about the particular lift trucks they would be using and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the forklift driver would learn about the model he or she would be driving. Information comprises specifications such as load, height and weight capacity. The operator will learn the basics of charging or fueling the forklift, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures pertaining to the particular lift truck, such as how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training would ensure the lift truck driver knows how to drive the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training would take place in the same type of setting in which the operator will be working. The driver will train on the same type of terrain with the same sorts of surrounding buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training Courses
Counterbalance lift truck drivers are required by OSHA to take a regular refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which a driver requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training must comprise classroom-style training.