Forklift Truck Training
You should be trained on a forklift or an industrial-powered lift truck before becoming a certified operator. This type of training is normally tailored to the equipment, any machine attachment to be used by the operator and individual facility. It is really essential to have safety foremost on the mind of the trainer or the trainee.
General Qualifications
For those who want to operate a forklift, they need to be at least 18 years old and have the physical ability to safely operate and control the type of machine they are training for. Before assuming any operator responsibilities, all operators should be certified properly.
Pedestrian Safety
One of the most common types of forklift related injuries occurs when a pedestrian is struck by the machine. Operators of forklifts must always yield to pedestrians and use their horns when nearing any crosswalk, pedestrian area or intersection.
Weather Conditions
Loading docks are among the most dangerous places to operate a lift truck. When rain filters in through dock doors that are open, the floor could become very dangerous and slippery. It is important that forklift operators take these situations into consideration when operating within these kinds of settings.
Certification
Both hands-on exercises and classroom instructions should be completed in order to become a certified forklift operator. This type of training can be adjusted to be able to suit all the requirements of each type of workplace; like for instance, incorporating the various attachments that would be used on that particular job location and each particular type of equipment.
Accidents
Unfortunately approximately 100 individuals are killed every year in forklift accidents. Furthermore, there are roughly 100,000 who are injured. With proper forklift training and safe use of the machinery, most of these injuries can be prevented all together.