Forklift Truck Training
Prior to becoming qualified as an operator, training on a forklift or an industrial-powered lift truck is required. This training is normally modified to the machine, any machine attachment to be used by the operator and individual facility. It is very important to have safety foremost on the mind of the trainee or the trainer.
General Qualifications
For those who want to operate a forklift, they have to be at least 18 years old and have the physical ability to safely control and operate the kind of machinery they are training for. Before assuming any operator duties, all operators need to be properly trained.
Pedestrian Safety
One of the most common kinds of forklift related injuries happens when a pedestrian is struck by the machinery. Operators of forklifts should always yield to pedestrians and use their horns when close to any pedestrian area, intersection or crosswalk.
Weather Conditions
Loading docks are amongst the most hazardous places to use a forklift. When rain filters in through dock doors which are open, the floor could become extremely dangerous and slippery. It is important for operators of forklifts to consider these situations when operating within these kinds of settings.
Certification
In order to become a qualified forklift operator, training involves hands-on exercises and classroom instruction. This kind of training could be adjusted to meet the requirements of each type of workplace; for instance, incorporating the various attachments which would be used on that particular job site and each specific kind of machinery.
Accidents
Sadly roughly 100 individuals are killed every year in forklift accidents. Additionally, there are roughly 100,000 who are injured. With proper forklift training and safe operation of the equipment, most of these injuries can be avoided all together.