Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty machinery found in almost every warehouse and factory. These reliable and tough machines can raise and move heavy things that are not able to lift manually. There is some specific training complete in order to be able to safely use a forklift. Nearly all employers prefer a degree in high school. As the forklift is a heavy piece of equipment it can be dangerous if not handled correctly, therefore, the operator's skills are very necessary.
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 weight and height of the load. Knowing the particulars would help to guarantee that both the forklift and load would fit it designed area. It is very vital to have good judgement in order 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 which come in handy are good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. For example, 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 fix the issue. In order to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is needed when operating and working near these machines.
Adaptability
Depending upon the task, amongst the top skills of a forklift driver is to be able to adapt to their specific work surroundings. Depending upon each job, this could change on a continuous basis. Some forklift jobs need operators to be exposed to dangerous machinery, harmful materials, odors, loud noises or fumes. Work atmospheres and warehouses could be busy places. The forklift driver must be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety in general. Moreover, numerous forklift tasks require being outdoors to unload supplies or move things; thus, the operator should be prepared at the possibility of working in poor weather conditions.
Equipment Maintenance
Forklift drivers have to understand how heavy mobile machinery works and have to be able and willing to follow directions. Drivers have to learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and can make sure that the horn, the lights, the steering, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
Forklift truck drivers have to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and have to know when something is not working correctly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about machinery problems.