Skills of a Stand Up Forklift Driver
The forklift or powered industrial truck is a heavy duty machinery found in practically every warehouse and factory. These tough and reliable machines could raise and move heavy things which are not able to raise by hand. There is some specific training complete so as to be able to utilize a forklift safely. Nearly all employers prefer a degree in high school. As the forklift is a heavy piece of machine it could be dangerous if not correctly handled, hence, the skills of the operator are very important.
Good Judgment
The forklift driver needs to have good judgment to be able to estimate the weight of a load. They have to be able to judge the height and width of the load so as to ensure that it will fit in a designed area. It is really essential 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 equipment in reverse.
Concentration and Reflexes
Driver skills that come in handy are good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. Like for example, if a stack of objects in a load or a pallet is off balance and about to fall, the operator needs to be able to quickly respond and try to solve the problem. In order to avoid accidents, a high level of concentration is needed when using and working near these equipment.
Adaptability
Depending upon the task, among the top skills of a forklift driver is to be able to adapt to their specific work setting. Depending on every job, this can change on a continuous basis. Several forklift jobs need operators to be exposed to dangerous machines, harmful materials, odors, loud noises or fumes. Work surroundings and warehouses could be really busy places. The driver of the forklift should be able to keep a cool head and an eye toward safety in general. Moreover, many forklift jobs require being outdoors to unload goods or transport items; thus, the driver should be ready at the likelihood of working in poor weather.
Equipment Maintenance
Drivers should be able to follow directions and understand how heavy machinery works. Drivers should learn how to double check an OSHA safety checklist and be able to ensure that the horn, the lights, the steering, the brakes and the forks, along with other parts are working at an optimal level.
The driver of the forklift must also be able to correctly maintain the forklift and have to know when something is not working properly. An important part of forklift truck training is also being able to explain to mechanics about equipment issues.