responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
Lift truck operators usually are employed in factories and warehouses. Their role is to transport materials and loads from one place to another. They must be trained to operate the lift truck controls safely. Specialized training is a prerequisite. Drivers must have a background check and pass a drug test.
Performing Inspections
HRSDC and OSHA both require forklift drivers to perform daily and pre-shift checks. Forklift operator training must consist of the correct performance of safety inspections to assure optimum functionality. An inspection should also be done at the end of each shift. Regular safety training should be undertaken on a yearly basis.
Loading and Unloading
The forklift driver is tasked with the job of unloading and loading materials in a timely and safe method. This job also involves the stacking of supplies in an organized method so they are accessible.
Weighing Supplies
The responsibilities of a forklift operator could include weighing the supplies that are being transported and recording the weights.
Quality Control
Forklift drivers are in charge of quality control. They need to make sure that goods do not sustain damage during transportation inside the warehouse and orders are correct.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck drivers should have great skills in both attention and awareness. Operators need to be very concerned with the safety of employees and pedestrians. The operator must find the safest way to handle difficulties, like navigating a steep surface with a cargo. The driver would need to determine the route that is the safest. An operator's training will include learning about the forces which could cause a forklift to tip over. The driver needs to be extremely familiar with the design and safety ratings of the lift truck unit that they are operating. A forklift operator should be sensitive to the need for breaks to prevent fatigue. Accidents associated to forklifts are more likely to take place when a driver is tired.