Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machine found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable machinery could raise and move heavy things which are not able to lift by hand. There is some particular training complete in order to be able to safely operate a forklift. Most employers prefer a high school degree. Since the forklift is a heavy piece of machine it can be dangerous if not handled properly, therefore, the driver's skills are very important.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate how much a load weighs, the forklift operator needs to have good judgement, able to judge both the height and weight of the load. 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 to be able to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to competently drive the equipment in reverse.
Reflexes and Concentration
Operator skills that come in handy are quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. For instance, if a stack of objects in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the operator must be able to respond quickly and try to fix the issue. In order to prevent accidents, a high level of concentration is required when utilizing and working in the vicinity of these machinery.
Adaptability
Depending upon the task, one of the top skills of a forklift driver is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending on each job, this could change on a continuous basis. Some forklift tasks require drivers to be exposed to harmful materials, dangerous machines, odors, loud noises or fumes. Work surroundings and warehouses could be busy places. The lift truck operator must be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head in general. Moreover, a lot of forklift tasks require being outdoors to unload merchandise or move items; therefore, the operator has to be prepared at the possibility of working in bad weather.
Machine Maintenance
Forklift drivers need to understand how heavy mobile machine works and have to be able and willing to follow instructions. Operators have to learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and be able to make certain that the horn, the lights, the steering, the brakes and the forks, along with other components are functioning at an optimal level.
Forklift truck drivers need to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and need to know when something is not functioning properly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about machine problems.