responsibilities of a Forklift Driver
The most common area for lift truck drivers to be employed are in factories and warehouses. Their tasks would consist of the lifting and transporting of supplies and loads from one place to another. They must be taught to safely use the lift truck controls. Specialized training is a requirement. Operators should pass a drug test and have a background check.
Performing Inspections
OSHA and HRSDC both require forklift operators to perform daily and pre-shift inspections. Lift truck operator training should comprise the correct performance of safety checks to assure optimum functionality. An inspection must also be done at the end of every shift. Regular safety training must be undertaken on an annual basis.
Loading and Unloading
The forklift driver is tasked with the job of loading and unloading supplies in a safe and timely way. This responsibility also involves the organized stacking of goods so they are accessible.
Weighing Materials
The responsibilities of a lift truck operator can include weighing the supplies which are being transported and recording the weights.
Quality Control
The operator of the lift truck will be in charge of quality control. They should make certain orders are accurate and that goods do not sustain damage during transportation in the warehouse.
Safety Awareness
A responsible lift truck operator should have excellent skills in awareness and attention to safety. Drivers must exhibit a high level of concern for the safety of employees and pedestrians. The operator must find the safest way to deal with difficulties, like for instance navigating a steep surface with a load. The operator should determine the route which is the safest. An operator's training will include learning about the forces which could cause a lift truck to tip over. The operator must be extremely familiar with the design and safety ratings of the lift truck unit which they are using. A forklift driver must be sensitive to the need for breaks to prevent fatigue. Accidents associated to lift trucks are more likely to take place when a driver is tired.