Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
A powered industrial truck or a forklift is a piece of heavy equipment found in factories and in warehouses. They are used to move and transport bulk things which are very heavy to lift or carry by hand. There is some specific training complete in order to be able to operate a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a high school degree. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of equipment it could be dangerous if not handled properly, thus, the driver's skills are very important.
Good Judgment
In order to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift operator has to have good judgement, able to judge both the weight and height of the cargo. Knowing the particulars will help to ensure that the load and forklift would fit it designed area. It is essential to have proper judgement to be able to move the forklift around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to competently drive the machine in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Driver 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 quickly respond and try to rectify the issue. To be able to avoid mishaps, a high level of concentration is required when utilizing and working near these machinery.
Adaptability
Among the top skills of a forklift driver is that they have to be adaptable to the work setting. This can be continually changing depending on the job. Some forklift tasks need drivers to be exposed to harmful materials, dangerous equipment, fumes, odors or loud noises. Work atmospheres and warehouses could be really busy places. The lift truck operator should be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety overall. Additionally, numerous forklift tasks require being outdoors to move items or unload goods; thus, the driver must be ready at the possibility of working in poor climate.
Machinery Maintenance
Forklift operators have to understand how heavy mobile equipment works and have to be able and willing to follow directions. Operators have to learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and be able to make certain that the steering, the horn, the lights, the forks and the brakes, along with other components are working at an optimal level.
The driver of the lift truck should also be able to properly maintain the forklift and have to know when something is not working properly. An essential part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about machine issues.