Duties of a Forklift Operator
The most common area for forklift operators to be employed are in warehouses and factories. Their tasks would consist of the lifting and transporting of supplies and goods from one place to another. They should be trained to safely operate the lift truck controls. Specialized training is a prerequisite. Drivers should pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Inspections
OSHA and HRSDC both require lift truck operators to carry out daily and pre-shift checks. Forklift operator training should comprise the proper performance of safety inspections to guarantee optimum functionality. An inspection should also be done at the end of every shift. Regular safety training must be undertaken each year.
Loading and Unloading
Lift truck operators perform tasks related to unloading and loading materials in a safe and timely manner. This responsibility also involves the organized stacking of goods so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
The duties of a forklift operator could include weighing the supplies which are being moved and recording the weights.
Quality Control
Forklift operators are in charge of quality control. They must make certain that goods do not sustain damage during transportation in the warehouse and orders are correct.
Safety Awareness
A responsible forklift driver must have excellent skills in awareness and attention to safety. Drivers must exhibit a high level of concern for the safety of both personnel and pedestrians. The operator should find the safest way to deal with difficulties, like for instance navigating a steep surface with a load. The operator will need to determine the safest route to take. An operator's training will involve learning about the elements that might cause a forklift to tip over. The operator should be really familiar with the design and safety ratings of the lift truck unit that they are utilizing. A forklift driver should be sensitive to the need for breaks to prevent exhaustion. Forklift accidents are more likely to happen when an operator is tired.