responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
The most common area for lift truck operators to be employed are in factories and warehouses. Their responsibilities will consist of the lifting and moving of materials and loads from one place to another. They should be trained to safely utilized the forklift controls. Specialized training is a prerequisite. Operators should pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Checks
OSHA and HRSDC both require lift truck drivers to carry out daily and pre-shift checks. Lift truck driver training should include the proper performance of safety inspections to assure optimum functionality. An inspection should also be done at the end of every shift. Regular safety training should be undertaken each year.
Unloading and Loading
The forklift operator is tasked with the job of unloading and loading materials in a timely and safe method. This job also includes the stacking of materials in an organized method so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
Weighing the supplies that are to be moved could be part of the forklift operator's duties.
Quality Control
The driver of the forklift would be in charge of quality control. They should make sure that goods do not sustain damage during transportation in the warehouse and orders are accurate.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck drivers should have great skills in both awareness and attention. Drivers have to be highly concerned with the safety of both employees and pedestrians. The driver must find the safest way to handle challenges, like navigating a steep surface with a load. The driver must determine the route that is the safest. An operator's training will involve learning about the forces which can cause a lift truck to tip over. The driver has to be very familiar with the design and safety ratings of the forklift unit that they are using. A forklift operator has to be sensitive to the need for breaks to avoid exhaustion. Mishaps associated to lift trucks are more likely to occur when an operator is tired.