Counterbalance lift truck Training
OSHA does require operators utilizing a counterbalanced forklift to have received lecture style or classroom training. They also require that a periodic refresher training in addition to a supervised driving course is completed. 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
A counterbalanced forklift balances its cargo with the weight of the truck. The forks on a lift truck are in a fixed position; they go up and down and do not pivot. The forks run parallel to the body of the forklift. OSHA require that people who will be operating counterbalanced forklifts on the job be trained on the trucks while being in the kind of setting that they would be utilizing them.
Classroom Training
Classroom training or lecture style training offers information about the truck which the operator will be utilizing. This training includes aspects like weight and load capacity, height, how to fuel or charge the forklift. It includes how to gauge the time on the engine in addition to any forklift specific safety information like where to stand when walking around the truck. Either written and/or oral testing is part of the classroom training. There is no required minimum time for the training.
Supervised Driving
The lift truck driver needs to learn how to drive the counterbalanced forklift while being supervised. The supervised driving has to take place in an area which reflects the environment the operator will be driving in. This atmosphere should include the type of terrain she would be traveling on, have similar surrounding structures nearby, and similar pedestrian and vehicle traffic close by also. There is no specific minimum number of hours the driver has to drive while being supervised.