Forklift Truck Training
Prior to becoming qualified as an operator, training on an industrial-powered lift truck or a forklift is necessary. This training is usually tailored to the equipment, any machine attachment to be used by the operator and individual facility. It is vital to have safety foremost on the mind of the trainer or the trainee.
General Qualifications
You must be 18 years old if you would like to operate a forklift. What's more, you must have the physical ability to control and operate the type of equipment you are training for in a safe manner. Before assuming any operator duties, 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 machinery. Operators of forklifts are required to always yield to pedestrians and use their horns when approaching any intersection, crosswalk or pedestrian area.
Weather Conditions
Among the most dangerous places to utilize a forklift are loading docks. When rain filters in through dock doors that are open, the floor can become very dangerous and slippery. It is very vital that forklift operators take these situations into consideration when operating in these types of environments.
Certification
In order to become a qualified forklift operator, training includes hands-on exercises and classroom instruction. This type of training can be adjusted to suit the requirements of each kind of workplace; for instance, incorporating the various attachments which will be used on that particular job location and every specific type of machinery.
Accidents
Sadly about 100 individuals are killed each and every year in forklift accidents. In addition, there are approximately 100,000 who are injured. With safe operation of the equipment and correct forklift training, most of these injuries could be avoided all together.