Lift truck Truck Training
Operators must undergo training on an industrial-powered lift truck, or forklift in order to be given forklift operator certification. The training course must be specific to the lift truck type and attachments which you will be using on the job. Training must also reflect the atmosphere wherein you would be working. Forklift safety must be a main concern for both the operator trainee and the trainer.
General Credentials
Anyone using a lift truck must undergo training and certification before assuming operator duties. Basic credentials for operating a lift truck include an age minimum of eighteen years and the physical capacity to safely operate and control the unit.
Pedestrian Safety
The safety of pedestrians must be a top concern of any forklift operator. Pedestrians in the vicinity of the lift truck are at risk of death or injury from getting hit by the equipment or its additions. Pedestrians always have the right of way, and forklift operators must honk their horns when working near pedestrians or at crosswalks or intersections.
Weather Conditions
Lift truck mishaps usually happen on loading docks. These areas become dangerous if rain leaks in through open dock doors making the floor very slippery. Wet floor conditions could lead to a danger and operators should be aware of possible dangers when working in loading dock areas.
Certification
Lift truck certification courses include a combination of practical training and classroom instruction tailored to the particular requirements of the workplace. Training should be undertaken on the kind of forklift and attachments which will be utilized by the trainee in the workplace.
Mishaps
On average, there is about 100 deaths attributed to forklift accidents, while over 100,000 are injured by forklifts. Most of these accidents could be avoided with attention to safety and correct operator training.