Duties of a Forklift Operator
Forklift operators typically are employed in warehouses and factories. Their responsibility is to transport supplies and goods from one location to another. They must be trained to operate the lift truck controls safely. Specialized training is a requirement. Operators must pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Inspections
HRSDC and OSHA both require forklift operators to carry out daily and pre-shift checks. Lift truck driver training should include the proper 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 on a yearly basis.
Unloading and Loading
The forklift operator is tasked with the job of loading and unloading materials in a timely and safe method. This job also involves the organized stacking of supplies so they are accessible.
Weighing Materials
The responsibilities of a lift truck operator could include weighing the materials which are being transported and recording the weights.
Quality Control
Forklift operators are in charge of quality control. They should make sure orders are accurate and that products do not sustain damage during transportation inside the warehouse.
Safety Awareness
Lift truck drivers must have good skills in both awareness and attention. Drivers have to be very concerned with the safety of personnel and pedestrians. The operator should find the safest way to handle challenges, like for instance navigating a steep surface with a cargo. The driver would need to determine the route which is the safest. A driver's training would include learning about the forces that might cause a forklift to tip over. The driver should be extremely familiar with the safety ratings and design of the forklift unit that they are operating. A lift truck driver must be sensitive to the need for breaks to prevent exhaustion. Accidents associated to lift trucks are more likely to take place when an operator is tired.