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