Forklift Truck Training
Operators need to undergo training on an industrial-powered forklift, or lift truck to be given forklift driver certification. The training must be specific to the lift truck attachments and type which you would be utilizing on the job. Training must also reflect the environment in which you will be working. Forklift safety should be a top priority for both the trainer and the operator trainee.
General Qualifications
Anybody operating a lift truck should undergo training and certification before assuming operator duties. Basic credentials for driving a forklift include an age of at least 18 years and the physical ability to safely control and operate the unit.
Pedestrian Safety
The safety of pedestrians must be a top concern of any forklift driver. Pedestrians in the vicinity of the forklift are at risk of death or injury from getting hit by the equipment or its additions. Pedestrians should always have the right of way, and lift truck drivers should honk their horns when working near pedestrians or at crosswalks or intersections.
Weather Conditions
Many mishaps involving forklifts take place at loading docks. These places become dangerous if rain leaks in through open dock doors making the floor extremely slippery. Wet floor conditions can lead to a danger and operators should be aware of possible dangers when working in loading dock areas.
Certification
Certification programs for lift truck drivers consist of both classroom instruction and practical training which can be tailored for the specific requirements of each work setting. Training must be completed on the type of forklift and attachments which will be utilized by the trainee in the workplace.
Accidents
Each year about 100 individuals die in forklift mishaps. There are 100,000 forklift injuries reported each and every year. Nearly all of these accidents can be avoided with attention to safety and proper operator training.