Forklift Job Description
Narrow Reach forklifts are most often used in product movement in numerous warehouses. This particular equipment is a good choice because most things today are packaged in a way that makes it much too heavy for one person to pick them up effectively or safely without the help of any type of industrial machine.
Job Description
A forklift operator has the vital job of safely moving items from one place to another in a secure manner. They use the forklifts toggles and controls in order to execute accurate movements and lift and transport cargo efficiently. Operators of forklifts often unload trailers, trains, shipping containers or other types of storage units. The forklift operator has the extra responsibility of performing regular inspections on the machinery in order to ensure it could safely perform the required job.
Personal Qualities
It is important for a forklift driver to have basic writing and reading skills. Moreover, the forklift operator should be physically healthy and can comfortably lift 30 pounds. They should be physically able to drive a forklift; thus, they need the physical ability of using both hands, both feet and both arms. The forklift driver should ideally be able to stand for an 8 hour shift. In the majority of work settings, they will be entitled to two short coffee breaks and a half-hour lunch break during the day. It is essential that the forklift operator not be prone to reckless driving or rage of any type.
Training
Forklift training is usually done on the job. Training will often cover control and safety training, that can be completed in different ways. These could include videos, lectures and testing. A performance test would also be conducted on the forklift. After the tests have been successfully done, a license can be issued. This license must be renewed according to shop procedures and based on state and provincial laws. If you get the chance to finish your lift truck training on the job, it is a great idea and it is a different skill you could include in your resume.
Job Locations
In larger establishments such as manufacturing or retail facilities, lift truck operators may work in a warehouse department. Forklift operators could also work in other fields, depending on the businesses needs. Forklifts are very useful pieces of machines that can be found on both construction sites and logging sites along with in nearly all ports, train yards and receiving and shipping facilities.