Counterbalance forklift Training
OSHA does require drivers utilizing a counterbalanced lift truck to have received classroom or lecture style training. They additionally require that a periodic refresher training as well as a supervised driving program is finished. There is no minimum time requirement for the classroom training or supervised driving. Also, there is no frequency mandated for the refresher training either.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
The weight of the counterbalance forklift is utilized to balance its cargo utilizing its own weight. The forklift forks are in a fixed position but can be lowered and raised to secure and transport cargo. The forks run parallel to the forklift's body. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration require that individuals who will be using counterbalanced forklifts on the job be trained on the trucks while being in the kind of environment which they will be utilizing them.
Classroom Training
Lecture style training or classroom training offers information regarding the truck that the driver would be using. This training covers aspects like weight and load capacity, height, how to fuel or charge the lift truck. It includes how to gauge the time on the engine in addition to any lift truck specific safety information like for instance where to stand when walking around the truck. Either oral and/or written testing is part of the classroom training. There is no minimum time requirement for the training.
Supervised Driving
The lift truck driver has to learn how to utilize the counterbalanced lift truck while being supervised. The supervised driving has to take place in a place that reflects the environment the operator would be driving in. This atmosphere must include the type of terrain she will be traveling on, have similar pedestrian and vehicle traffic nearby, and the same surrounding structures nearby too. There is no specific minimum number of hours the driver has to drive while being supervised.