Responsibilities of a Forklift Driver
The job of a forklift operator is to transport supplies from one place to another, usually within warehouses and factories. Forklift operators need specialized training, that is commonly provided by the workplace. Prospective operators should pass both a drug test and a background check.
Daily Inspections
A forklift operator's responsibilities consist of carrying out daily safety and functionality checks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all forklifts be checked before utilizing them. The operator should inspect the forklift again after the shift. Yearly safety training is a very vital part of the job description of a forklift driver.
Unloading and Loading
Forklift drivers utilize controls on the forklift to be able to unload and load supplies and to stack things efficiently and in a timely method.
Weighing Materials
As part of the many tasks, the forklift operator must both weigh and log the weights of the supplies they should transport.
Quality Control
One more important part of a forklift operator's role is quality control. This includes making sure that orders are right and making certain the supplies do not sustain damage during the moving process.
Battery Maintenance and Care
To be able to make sure that the unit has a long life span, proper forklift battery maintenance is vital. Maintenance and care procedures include checking the water level within the forklift battery around 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. When a battery is charging, never disrupt the cycle.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment is required when doing work on the battery, such as checks of water levels. Both eye protection and hand protection should be worn, and an acid spill kit and a fire extinguisher must be available. Forklift drivers should observe safety regulations at all times. The charging area should be kept clear of open fire and ventilated.