Duties of a Forklift Operator
The most common area for lift truck drivers to be employed are in factories and warehouses. Their tasks will consist of the lifting and moving of materials and loads from one area to another. They must be taught to safely use the forklift controls. Specialized training is a prerequisite. Drivers must pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Inspections
OSHA and HRSDC both require forklift operators to perform daily and pre-shift checks. Lift truck driver training should comprise the proper performance of safety checks to assure optimum functionality. An inspection should also be done at the end of every shift. Regular safety training must be undertaken on a yearly basis.
Unloading and Loading
Lift truck drivers perform tasks related to loading and unloading supplies in a safe and timely way. This job also includes the organized stacking of supplies so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
The responsibilities of a lift truck operator could include weighing the materials which are being transported and recording the weights.
Quality Control
Forklift drivers are in charge of quality control. They have to make sure that products do not sustain damage during transportation in the warehouse and orders are correct.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck operators should have good skills in both awareness and attention. Operators have to be highly concerned with the safety of personnel and pedestrians. The operator should find the safest way to deal with challenges, like for instance navigating a steep surface with a load. The operator should determine the safest route to take. A driver's training will involve learning about the elements which 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 lift truck operator has to be sensitive to the need for breaks to prevent exhaustion. Mishaps associated to forklifts are more likely to occur when a driver is tired.