Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machine found in practically every warehouse and factory. These reliable and tough machines can lift and transport heavy items that are not able to raise by hand. There is some particular training complete so as to be able to use a forklift safely. Most employers prefer a high school degree. Because the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it could be dangerous if not handled correctly, thus, the driver's skills are very important.
Good Judgment
The forklift operator has to have good judgment so as to estimate the weight of a load. They have to be able to judge the width and height of the load in order to ensure that it will fit in a designed area. It is important to have good judgement in order to move the forklift around obstacles and negotiate tight turns in order to be able to capably drive the machinery in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Required forklift skills skills include quick reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination. For instance, if a stack of items in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator has to be able to quickly respond and try to solve the problem. To be able to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is required when using and working in the vicinity of these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending on the job, amongst the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending upon every task, this could change on a continuous basis. Some forklift tasks need operators to be exposed to dangerous machinery, harmful materials, odors, loud noises or fumes. Warehouses and work surroundings could be busy places. The driver of the forklift must be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head in general. In addition, a lot of forklift tasks require being outdoors to move things or unload merchandise; hence, the driver must be ready at the likelihood of working in poor climate.
Equipment Maintenance
Drivers should be able to follow instructions and understand how heavy machinery works. Drivers should learn how to double check an Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety checklist and could make certain that the steering, the horn, the lights, the forks and the brakes, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
Forklift truck operators need to also understand how to properly maintain the vehicles and need to know when something is not working properly. An important part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about equipment issues.