Counterbalance forklift Training
OSHA does require operators using a counterbalanced lift truck to have received lecture style or classroom training. They additionally require that a periodic refresher training in addition to a supervised driving program is finished. There is no required minimum time for the classroom training or supervised driving. As well, there is no frequency mandated for the refresher training either.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced lift truck balances its cargo utilizing the truck's weight. The forks on a lift truck are in a fixed position; they go down and up and do not pivot. 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 kind of environment that they will be using them.
Classroom Training
Training either in a classroom or lecture style would provide lift truck and driver information for the truck you will be operating. Most training would cover certain aspects like the load and weight capacity, height, how to charge or fuel the lift truck. It includes 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 minimum time requirement for the training.
Supervised Driving
The forklift driver has to learn how to operate the counterbalanced forklift while being supervised. The supervised driving needs to take place in a place which reflects the environment the driver will be driving in. This atmosphere should include the type of terrain she will be traveling on, have the same surrounding structures nearby, and similar vehicle and pedestrian traffic close by also. There is no specific minimum number of hours the operator needs to drive while being supervised.