Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty machine found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable equipment can raise and move heavy items which are not able to lift manually. There is some specific training complete so as to be able to utilize a forklift safely. Nearly all employers prefer a high school degree. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of equipment it can be dangerous if not handled properly, hence, the skills of the driver are very important.
Good Judgment
The forklift operator needs to have good judgment in order to estimate how much a load weighs. They need to be able to judge the width and height of the load in order to ensure that it will fit in a designed area. It is really essential 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 machinery in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Required forklift operator skills consist of excellent hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for instance, if a stack of objects in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the driver must be able to quickly respond and try to rectify the problem. In order to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is necessary when utilizing and working near these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending upon the job, one of the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending upon every job, this could change on a continuous basis. Some forklift jobs require operators to be exposed to dangerous machinery, harmful materials, fumes, odors or loud noises. Work atmospheres and warehouses can be busy places. The lift truck operator should be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety in general. Moreover, numerous forklift jobs require being outdoors to transport items or unload goods; hence, the driver must be ready at the possibility of working in poor climate.
Machinery Maintenance
Forklift operators have to understand how heavy mobile equipment works and need to be able and willing to follow directions. Operators must learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and be able to ensure that the lights, the steering, the horn, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are functioning at an optimal level.
Forklift truck operators have to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and need to know when something is not working correctly. An essential part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain machine problems to mechanics.