Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty equipment found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable equipment can raise and move heavy things which are not able to raise by hand. There is some specific training complete so as to be able to safely utilize a forklift. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. As the forklift is a heavy piece of machine it can be dangerous if not handled properly, hence, the skills of the operator are extremely important.
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 height and weight of the cargo. Knowing the particulars will help to ensure that the forklift and load will fit it designed area. It is really important to have proper judgement in order to move the forklift around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to capably drive the machine in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Driver skills that come in handy are quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. For example, if a stack of objects in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator needs to be able to respond quickly and try to solve the problem. In order to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is required when operating and working near these equipment.
Adaptability
One of the top skills of a forklift driver is that they need to be adaptable to the work surroundings. This could be continually changing depending on the task. Several forklift jobs require operators to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous machines, loud noises, fumes or odors. Work atmospheres and warehouses can be busy places. The operator of the forklift should be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head overall. Additionally, numerous forklift tasks require being outdoors to unload merchandise or move things; thus, the driver needs to be ready at the likelihood of working in bad climate.
Machinery Maintenance
Operators must be able to follow instructions and understand how heavy machine works. Drivers should learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and be able to make sure that the steering, the horn, the lights, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
Forklift truck operators need to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and need to know when something is not functioning correctly. An essential part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain equipment issues to mechanics.