Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty equipment found in practically every warehouse and factory. These reliable and tough equipment could raise and move heavy things which are not able to raise by hand. There is some particular training complete in order to be able to safely operate a forklift. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. Since the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it can be dangerous if not handled correctly, hence, the skills of the operator are extremely important.
Good Judgment
The forklift driver has to have good judgment in order to estimate the weight of a load. They have to be able to judge the height and width of the cargo so as to ensure that it will fit in a designed area. It is important to have proper judgement in order to move the lift truck around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to capably drive the equipment in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Driver skills which come in handy are good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for example, if a stack of objects in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the operator should be able to quickly respond and try to rectify the problem. To be able to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is required when using and working near these machines.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, one of the top skills of a forklift driver is to be able to adapt to their specific work surroundings. Depending on every task, this can change on a continuous basis. Several forklift jobs need operators to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous machines, loud noises, fumes or odors. Work surroundings and warehouses could be very busy places. The lift truck driver should be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head overall. Additionally, many forklift tasks require being outdoors to move things or unload goods; therefore, the driver has to be prepared at the possibility of working in poor climate.
Equipment Maintenance
Forklift operators need to understand how heavy mobile equipment works and need to be able and willing to follow instructions. Operators must learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and could guarantee that the lights, the steering, the horn, the brakes and the forks, along with other components are functioning at an optimal level.
The operator of the forklift should also be able to correctly maintain the lift truck and have to know when something is not functioning correctly. An important part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain equipment issues to mechanics.