Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machine found in practically every factory and warehouse. These reliable and tough machines could raise and transport heavy things that are not able to lift by hand. There is some specific training complete in order to be able to utilize a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of machine it can be dangerous if not properly handled, therefore, the skills of the driver are very necessary.
Good Judgment
In order to estimate how much a load weighs, the forklift operator has to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the load. Knowing the particulars would help to guarantee that both the forklift and load will fit it designed area. It is vital to have proper judgement in order to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to capably drive the equipment in reverse.
Reflexes and Concentration
Required lift truck skills skills include excellent hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. For instance, if a stack of things in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the driver needs to be able to respond quickly and try to rectify the problem. In order to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is needed when operating and working in the vicinity of these machinery.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, amongst the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending upon every job, this may change on a continuous basis. Some forklift jobs require drivers to be exposed to harmful materials, dangerous machines, fumes, odors or loud noises. Warehouses and work surroundings could be busy places. The driver of the forklift must be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head in general. Additionally, many forklift tasks require being outdoors to transport things or unload merchandise; therefore, the operator must be prepared at the likelihood of working in bad weather.
Equipment Maintenance
Operators must be able to follow instructions and understand how heavy machinery works. Operators need to learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and can ensure that the steering, the horn, the lights, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
Forklift truck drivers need to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and have to know when something is not working correctly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain equipment problems to mechanics.