Responsibilities of a Forklift Operator
Forklift drivers are working within factories and warehouses to be able to move materials from one place to another. Operators need particular training, which is commonly provided by the workplace. Prospective operators must pass both a drug test and a background check.
Daily Inspections
Performing safety and functionality checks every day is part of the various tasks of a forklift operator. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all kinds of forklifts be checked prior to using them. The operator should inspect the forklift again after the shift. Yearly safety training is truly an essential part of the job description of a forklift driver.
Loading and Unloading
To load and unload materials and to stack products in a timely and efficient manner, forklift operators utilize the forklift controls.
Weighing Materials
A forklift operator's duties consist of weighing the supplies they are moving, and logging the weights.
Quality Control
Quality control is another vital part of the forklift operator's role. This includes ensuring orders are correct and making certain the materials do not sustain damage while transporting them.
Battery Care and Maintenance
In order to make sure that the unit has a long life span, proper forklift battery maintenance is required. Care and maintenance procedures include inspecting the level of water inside the battery roughly every five charge cycles, being careful not to overflow the water when filling the cell to just over the visible protector, and cleaning up any spills. Once a battery is charging, never interrupt the cycle.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment is required when doing work on the battery, like checks of water levels. Both eye protection and hand protection should be worn, and a fire extinguisher and acid spill kit should be on hand. Forklift drivers should always observe safety rules. The charging area should be kept ventilated and clear of open fire.