Counterbalance Forklift Training
Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced lift truck must receive training. Training for these types of industrial machinery includes both classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is needed occasionally in order to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the hands-on or classroom training.

Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its cargo utilizing a counterbalance built into the truck. The forks move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The blades do not rotate. Drivers who use counterbalanced lift trucks must receive training about the particular forklifts they would be utilizing and in a similar workplace environment.

Classroom Training Programs
In classroom training, the forklift driver will learn about the model she or he would be using. Information comprises specifications like height, weight and load capacity. The operator would learn the basics of fueling or charging the lift truck, depending on whether the engine is gas-powered or battery-powered. Safety measures regarding the particular forklift, such as how to safely walk around the lift truck, would be covered.

Supervised Driving
Supervised driver training will make certain that the lift truck driver knows how to utilize the counterbalanced lift truck. This practical training will occur in the same kind of environment in which the operator would be working. The operator will train on the same kind of terrain with the same kinds 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. Nonetheless, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator needs this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training courses should incorporate classroom-style training.