responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
The most common area for forklift operators to be employed are in factories and warehouses. Their responsibilities will consist of the lifting and moving of materials and goods from one place to another. They need to be taught to safely operate the lift truck controls. Specialized training is a requirement. Drivers must pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Checks
HRSDC and OSHA both require forklift operators to carry out daily and pre-shift inspections. Forklift operator training should comprise the correct performance of safety checks to assure optimum functionality. An inspection should also be done at the end of each shift. Regular safety training should be undertaken each year.
Loading and Unloading
The forklift driver is tasked with the job of unloading and loading materials in a safe and timely method. This responsibility also includes the organized stacking of goods so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
Weighing the materials that are to be transported can be part of the lift truck operator's responsibilities.
Quality Control
Forklift drivers are in charge of quality control. They should make certain orders are correct and that goods do not sustain damage during transportation in the warehouse.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck operators must have great skills in both attention and awareness. Drivers have to be very concerned with the safety of employees and pedestrians. The operator should find the safest way to handle difficulties, such as navigating a steep surface with a load. The operator should determine the safest route to take. A driver's training will include learning about the elements that may cause a forklift to tip over. The operator has to be extremely 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. Accidents associated to forklifts are more likely to take place when a driver is tired.