Counterbalance Forklift Training Courses
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anybody who operates a counterbalanced lift truck is required to receive training. Training for these types of industrial machinery comprises both hands-on driver training and classroom training. Refresher training is required periodically to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a minimum time requirement for either the hands-on or classroom training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The counterbalance lift truck could balance its cargo due to a counterbalance built into the truck. Forks can move up and down parallel to the truck's body. The tines do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training on the particular lift trucks they will be utilizing and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Courses
In classroom training, the forklift driver will learn about the model he or she will be driving. Information comprises specifications like load, height and weight capacity. The operator would be taught the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, that depends on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety measures regarding the specific truck, like how to safely walk around the forklift, would be included.
Supervised Driving
Driver training will be supervised to ensure that the operator will know how to correctly use the counterbalance forklift. This practical training program will happen in the same kind of setting in which the driver will be working. The driver will train on the same type of terrain with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures, as well as the same vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance lift truck operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. Then again, for regular drivers, refresher training should include classroom-style training.