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 utilized to transport and move bulk items which are very heavy to carry or lift by hand. There is some particular training complete in order to be able to use a forklift safely. Nearly all employers prefer a degree in high school. As the forklift is a heavy piece of machinery it can be dangerous if not handled properly, hence, the skills of the driver are very necessary.
Good Judgment
To be able to estimate the weight of a load, the forklift driver needs to have good judgement, able to judge both the height and weight of the cargo. Knowing the particulars would help to ensure that both the load and forklift would fit it designed area. It is really important to have proper judgement to be able to negotiate tight turns and move the forklift around obstacles in order to be able to competently drive the equipment in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Required forklift skills skills include excellent hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for instance, if a stack of things in a pallet or load is off balance and about to fall, the driver should be able to quickly respond and try to rectify the issue. In order to prevent mishaps, a high level of concentration is needed when operating and working near these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending upon the job, among the top skills of a forklift operator is to be able to adapt to their specific work environment. Depending on every job, this could change on a continuous basis. Some forklift jobs need drivers to be exposed to damaging materials, dangerous machinery, odors, loud noises or fumes. Work surroundings and warehouses can be busy places. The driver of the forklift must be able to keep an eye toward safety and a cool head overall. Moreover, numerous forklift jobs require being outdoors to transport items or unload merchandise; therefore, the driver must be ready at the likelihood of working in bad weather.
Machinery Maintenance
Drivers must be able to follow directions and understand how heavy equipment works. Drivers should learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and could 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 must also be able to properly maintain the lift truck and need to know when something is not working correctly. An important part of lift truck truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about equipment issues.