responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
Lift truck operators typically are employed in factories and warehouses. Their role is to move supplies and goods from one place to another. They have to be taught to operate the lift truck controls safely. Specialized training is a requirement. Operators must have a background check and pass a drug test.
Performing Inspections
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that all forklift operators perform a daily pre-shift lift truck check. Forklift driver training should consist of the correct performance of safety inspections to assure optimum functionality. An inspection must also be done at the end of each shift. Regular safety training must be undertaken on an annual basis.
Loading and Unloading
The forklift operator is tasked with the job of loading and unloading materials in a safe and timely way. This responsibility also involves the stacking of materials in an organized method so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
Weighing the supplies that are to be moved could be part of the forklift operator's responsibilities.
Quality Control
Forklift operators are in charge of quality control. They need to make certain orders are correct and that goods do not sustain damage during transportation inside the warehouse.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck operators should have great skills in both attention and awareness. Drivers need to be highly concerned with the safety of employees and pedestrians. The operator must find the safest way to handle difficulties, such as navigating a steep surface with a load. The operator must determine the safest route to take. An operator's training will involve learning about the elements which might cause a forklift to tip over. The driver must be really familiar with the design and safety ratings of the lift truck unit which they are operating. A lift truck driver should be sensitive to the need for breaks to avoid fatigue. Forklift accidents are more likely to happen when a driver is exhausted.