Counterbalance forklift Training
OSHA does require operators utilizing a counterbalanced forklift to have received classroom or lecture style training. They additionally require that a periodic refresher training along with a supervised driving course is finished. There is no required minimum time 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 used to balance its cargo utilizing its own weight. The lift truck forks are in a fixed position but could be raised and lowered to secure and move loads. The forks run parallel to the body of the forklift. OSHA require that people who would be operating counterbalanced forklifts on the job be trained on the trucks while being in the environment which they will be utilizing them.
Classroom Training
Lecture style training or classroom training provides information about the truck that the operator will be using. This training covers aspects like weight and load capacity, height, how to charge or fuel the lift truck. It covers how to gauge the time on the engine in addition to any lift truck 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 driver of a forklift will have to learn to drive the machine while being supervised. The supervised driving has to take place in an environment which resembles the current environment that the operator works in. This atmosphere should include the kind of terrain she would be traveling on, have the same vehicle and pedestrian traffic close by, and similar surrounding structures close by also. There is no specific minimum number of hours the operator needs to drive while being supervised.