Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty machine found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable machines could raise and move heavy items that are not able to lift by hand. There is some particular training complete so as to be able to safely utilize a forklift. Most employers prefer a high school degree. Since the forklift is a heavy piece of equipment it could be dangerous if not correctly handled, therefore, the driver's skills are extremely necessary.
Good Judgment
In order to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift driver needs to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the load. Knowing the particulars will help to guarantee that the load and forklift will fit it designed area. It is important to have good judgement to be able to move the lift truck around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to capably drive the equipment in reverse.
Reflexes and Concentration
Necessary lift truck operator skills include quick reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination. For example, if a stack of items in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator must be able to quickly respond and try to fix the issue. In order to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is required when operating and working in the vicinity of these machinery.
Adaptability
Amongst the top skills of a forklift operator is that they need to be adaptable to the work setting. This could be continually changing depending on the task. Several forklift jobs require drivers to be exposed to harmful materials, dangerous machines, fumes, odors or loud noises. Warehouses and work atmosphere could be busy places. The lift truck driver should be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head overall. Additionally, numerous forklift jobs require being outdoors to move things or unload goods; therefore, the driver must be ready at the likelihood of working in poor climate.
Equipment Maintenance
Forklift drivers have to understand how heavy mobile machine works and need to be able and willing to follow directions. Drivers must learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and can guarantee 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 lift truck must also be able to correctly maintain the lift truck and have to know when something is not working correctly. An essential part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about machinery issues.