Responsibilities of a Forklift Driver
The task of a forklift driver is to be able to move materials from one place to another, usually within warehouses and factories. Forklift drivers require particular training, that is normally offered by the workplace. Prospective forklift drivers should pass both a background check and a drug test.
Daily Inspections
A forklift operator's responsibilities include carrying out daily functionality and safety inspections. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all types of forklifts be inspected prior to utilizing them. The operator must inspect the forklift once more after the shift. Yearly safety training is a very vital part of the job description of a forklift operator.
Unloading and Loading
Forklift operators make use of forklift controls to load and unload supplies and to be able to stack stuff efficiently and in a timely manner.
Weighing Materials
A forklift operator's responsibilities include weighing the materials they are moving, and logging the weights.
Quality Control
One more important part of a forklift operator's job is quality control. This involves ensuring orders are correct and making sure the materials do not sustain damage during the moving process.
Battery Maintenance and Care
Caring for the forklift battery helps ensure a long life span for the unit. Maintenance and care procedures comprise inspecting the level of water inside the battery approximately every five charge cycles, filling the cell to just above the visible protector, being careful not to overflow the water, and cleaning up any spills. Once a forklift battery is charging, never interrupt the cycle.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment is required when doing work on the forklift battery, like checks of water levels. Both hand protection and eye protection must be worn, and an acid spill kit and a fire extinguisher should be on hand. Forklift drivers must always observe safety rules. The charging place must be kept ventilated and clear of open fire.