Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machine found in practically every warehouse and factory. These reliable and tough machinery can raise and move heavy items that are not able to raise manually. There is some particular training complete in order to be able to operate a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of machine it could be dangerous if not handled properly, thus, the skills of the driver are very necessary.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift operator has to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the load. Knowing the particulars will help to ensure that the forklift and load would fit it designed area. It is essential to have good judgement in order to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to competently drive the machine in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Operator skills that come in handy are good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for instance, if a stack of things in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator must be able to respond quickly and try to solve the issue. In order to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is needed when using and working in the vicinity of these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, among the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending upon each task, this can change on a continuous basis. Several forklift jobs need drivers to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous machines, loud noises, fumes or odors. Warehouses and work atmosphere can be very busy places. The lift truck operator must be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety in general. Additionally, many forklift tasks require being outdoors to transport things or unload goods; hence, the driver should be ready at the possibility of working in bad weather.
Machine Maintenance
Forklift drivers have to understand how heavy mobile machinery works and need to be able and willing to follow directions. Drivers must learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and can ensure that the lights, the steering, the horn, the forks and the brakes, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
Forklift truck drivers have to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and have to know when something is not functioning properly. An essential part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain machinery problems to mechanics.