Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machinery found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable machines could lift and move heavy items that are not able to lift manually. There is some specific training complete in order to be able to utilize a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a high school degree. As the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it could be dangerous if not properly handled, therefore, the skills of the operator are extremely necessary.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate how much a load weighs, the forklift driver has to have good judgement, able to judge both the height and weight of the cargo. Knowing the particulars will help to ensure that both the forklift and load will fit it designed area. It is really important to have good judgement to be able to move the forklift around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to capably drive the equipment in reverse.
Reflexes and Concentration
Driver skills that come in handy are quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. For example, if a stack of objects in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the operator needs to be able to quickly respond and try to rectify the issue. In order to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is necessary when utilizing and working in the vicinity of these machinery.
Adaptability
One of the top skills of a lift truck operator is that they have to be adaptable to the work surroundings. This can be continually changing depending on the task. Several forklift jobs require operators to be exposed to harmful materials, dangerous machinery, fumes, odors or loud noises. Work atmospheres and warehouses could be busy places. The driver of the forklift must be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety in general. In addition, numerous forklift tasks require being outdoors to unload goods or move things; therefore, the driver should be ready at the possibility of working in poor weather.
Equipment Maintenance
Forklift drivers need to understand how heavy mobile machinery works and need to be able and willing to follow directions. Operators should learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and could make sure that the lights, the steering, the horn, the forks and the brakes, along with other parts are functioning at an optimal level.
The operator of the forklift should also be able to correctly maintain the forklift and need to know when something is not functioning properly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain machinery problems to mechanics.