Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty machine found in almost every factory and warehouse. These tough and reliable machinery can raise and move heavy items which are not able to raise by hand. There is some particular training complete so as to be able to use a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. Since the forklift is a heavy piece of equipment it can be dangerous if not correctly handled, therefore, the driver's skills are extremely important.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift driver has to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the load. Knowing the particulars will help to guarantee that both the forklift and load will fit it designed area. It is essential to have good judgement in order to move the lift truck around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to competently drive the equipment in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Required forklift skills skills include excellent hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for example, if a stack of objects in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator should be able to quickly respond and try to rectify the problem. In order to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is required when utilizing and working in the vicinity of these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, one of the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work surroundings. Depending upon each task, this could change on a continuous basis. Several forklift jobs require operators to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous machines, odors, loud noises or fumes. Work surroundings and warehouses could be really busy places. The operator of the forklift must be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety overall. Moreover, numerous forklift jobs require being outdoors to unload merchandise or transport items; hence, the driver should be ready at the likelihood of working in bad climate.
Machine Maintenance
Operators should be able to follow directions and understand how heavy machine works. Operators need to learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and can guarantee that the steering, the horn, the lights, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are functioning at an optimal level.
The operator of the lift truck must also be able to properly maintain the forklift and have to know when something is not working correctly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain machinery issues to mechanics.