Responsibilities of a Forklift Driver
The task of a forklift driver is to be able to move materials from one place to another, normally within factories and warehouses. Operators require specialized training, that is usually provided by the workplace. Potential forklift operators must pass both a drug test and a background check.
Performing Inspections
A forklift operator's responsibilities consist of carrying out daily safety and functionality checks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all kinds of forklifts be inspected before use. The driver must inspect the forklift once more at the end of the shift. Annual safety training is really a very important part of a forklift driver's job description.
Loading and Unloading
Forklift operators use controls on the forklift to be able to unload and load supplies and to stack stuff efficiently and in a timely manner.
Weighing Materials
A forklift driver's duties consist of weighing the supplies they are moving, and logging the weights.
Quality Control
One more essential part of a forklift driver's role is quality control. This includes making sure that orders are right and making sure the supplies do not sustain damage while moving them.
Battery Maintenance and Care
To be able to make certain that the unit has a long life span, correct forklift battery maintenance is vital. Proper care and maintenance consist of checking the water level inside the battery roughly 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 forklift battery is charging, never interrupt the cycle.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
When performing works on the forklift battery, like checking the water level, Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is required. Both eye protection and hand protection should be worn, and an acid spill kit and a fire extinguisher must be on hand. Forklift drivers should always observe safety rules. The charging area must be kept ventilated and clear of open fire.