Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty equipment found in practically every factory and warehouse. These tough and reliable equipment could raise and move heavy items which are not able to raise by hand. There is some specific training complete in order to be able to safely operate a forklift. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. As the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it could be dangerous if not properly handled, therefore, the driver's skills are extremely necessary.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift operator needs to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the cargo. Knowing the particulars would help to guarantee that both the load and forklift will fit it designed area. It is important to have good judgement in order to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to capably drive the machinery in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Driver skills that come in handy are quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. Like for instance, if a stack of objects in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the driver must be able to respond quickly and try to rectify the issue. To be able to prevent mishaps, a high level of concentration is needed when utilizing and working near these machines.
Adaptability
Depending upon the task, one of the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work surroundings. Depending on each job, this may change on a continuous basis. Several forklift jobs require drivers to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous equipment, fumes, odors or loud noises. Warehouses and work surroundings can be very busy places. The driver of the forklift must be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head overall. Additionally, a lot of forklift jobs require being outdoors to transport things or unload supplies; thus, the driver needs to be ready at the likelihood of working in bad weather conditions.
Machine Maintenance
Operators should be able to follow directions and understand how heavy machinery works. Operators should learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and can ensure that the steering, the horn, the lights, the forks and the brakes, along with other components are functioning at an optimal level.
The driver of the forklift should also be able to correctly maintain the forklift and need to know when something is not functioning correctly. An essential part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain machinery problems to mechanics.