Forklift Truck Training
You should be trained on a forklift or an industrial-powered lift truck prior to becoming a qualified operator. This kind of training is often modified to the specific type of machinery, individual facility and any machine attachments to be utilized by the operator. It is very important to have safety as a priority for the trainee or the trainer.
General Qualifications
You should be 18 years old if you want to operate a forklift. In addition, you should have the physical capability to operate and control the type of equipment you are training for in a safe manner. Before assuming any operator responsibilities, all operators must be certified properly.
Pedestrian Safety
One of the most common types of forklift related injuries occurs when a pedestrian is struck by the machine. Forklift operators are required to always yield to pedestrians and use their horns when nearing any pedestrian area, intersection or crosswalk.
Weather Conditions
Loading docks are amongst the most dangerous places to operate a lift truck. When rain filters in through dock doors which are open, the floor can become extremely dangerous and slippery. It is really important for operators of forklifts to consider these situations when operating within these types of settings.
Certification
Both classroom instructions and hands-on exercises must be completed in order to become a qualified forklift operator. This type of training can be adjusted to be able to suit all the requirements of every type of workplace; for instance, incorporating the various attachments which would be utilized on that particular jobsite and each specific kind of equipment.
Accidents
On an annual basis, around 100 individuals are killed due to accidents related to utilizing forklifts. Moreover, there are about 100,000 who are injured. With safe operation of the equipment and correct forklift training, the majority of these injuries could be prevented all together.