Responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
Forklift operators are working within warehouses and factories to transport supplies from one location to another. Drivers need particular training, which is usually offered by the workplace. Prospective drivers should pass both a drug test and a background check.
Daily Inspections
A forklift operator's duties include carrying out daily safety and functionality inspections. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all forklifts be inspected prior to use. The driver should inspect the forklift again at the end of the shift. Annual safety training is an essential part of a forklift operator's job description.
Unloading and Loading
Forklift operators use controls on the forklift to unload and load materials and to be able to stack stuff effectively and in a timely manner.
Weighing Materials
As part of the many duties, the forklift driver should both weigh and log the weights of the materials they must move.
Quality Control
Quality control is one more important part of the forklift driver's job. This includes making certain that orders are right and making certain the materials do not sustain damage while transporting them.
Battery Maintenance and Care
To be able to make certain that the unit has a long life span, correct forklift battery maintenance is essential. Maintenance and care procedures comprise inspecting the level of water in the forklift battery approximately every five charge cycles, filling the cell to just over the visible protector, being careful not to overflow the water, and cleaning up any spills. When a battery is charging, never interrupt the cycle.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment is necessary when doing work on the forklift battery, such as checks of water levels. Both eye protection and hand protection must be worn, and a fire extinguisher and acid spill kit should be on hand. Forklift drivers must observe safety regulations at all times. The charging area should be kept clear of open fire and ventilated.