Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Operator
The powered industrial truck or forklift is a heavy duty machine found in almost every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable machinery can raise and transport heavy things that are not able to lift by hand. There is some specific training complete so as to be able to use a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a degree in high school. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it could be dangerous if not properly handled, therefore, the skills of the operator are extremely necessary.
Good Judgment
The forklift driver has to have good judgment to be able to estimate how much a load weighs. They need to be able to judge the width and height of the cargo in order to ensure that it would fit in a designed area. It is vital to have good judgement in order to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to capably drive the machinery in reverse.
Reflexes and Concentration
Necessary lift truck operator skills consist of quick reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination. For example, if a stack of items in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator should be able to respond quickly and try to solve the issue. To be able to prevent mishaps, a high level of concentration is necessary when using and working near these machinery.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, among the top skills of a forklift driver is to be able to adapt to their specific work environment. Depending on every job, this may change on a continuous basis. Some forklift tasks need operators to be exposed to dangerous machinery, harmful materials, fumes, odors or loud noises. Work surroundings and warehouses could be busy places. The lift truck driver should be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety overall. Additionally, lots of forklift tasks require being outdoors to unload supplies or transport items; therefore, the driver should be prepared at the possibility of working in bad weather.
Machine Maintenance
Forklift operators have to understand how heavy mobile machine works and have to be able and willing to follow directions. Operators need to learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and be able to guarantee that the steering, the horn, the lights, the brakes and the forks, along with other components are functioning at an optimal level.
Forklift truck operators need to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and have to know when something is not working correctly. An essential part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain machine issues to mechanics.