A forklift operator, at its most basic level, operates a powered industrial truck known as a forklift to transport heavy or otherwise bulky materials from one location to another. Forklifts are specialized vehicles with a large pronged “fork” that protrudes from the front and can lift, rotate, or otherwise move cargo in accordance with the operator’s instructions. These machines are useful in a variety of settings, but they are particularly common in warehouses and factories, as well as supply yards and loading docks. Operators are typically in charge of driving these machines and moving cargo in accordance with supply managers’ specific instructions. They may also be in charge of performing basic inspections on their equipment and performing simple maintenance tasks such as lubricating joints. They may be required to be licensed in some areas, and they must usually complete at least basic training before starting work.
Responsibilities & Primary Responsibilities
Truck and freight train cars are frequently loaded and unloaded by forklift operators. They may also unload ships or airplane cargo holds, depending on where they work. The majority of freight is loaded onto pallets, which are grooved specifically for the fork’s prongs, making loading and unloading relatively simple. However, occasionally, particularly heavy or unusually shaped freight may not be on a pallet, and in these cases, the freight must be picked up with the fork. When it comes to properly aligning the prongs and applying the appropriate amount of force, this can take some experience. It’s also important to have a good overall speed. If you move too quickly, the target will slip, but if you move too slowly, the machine will strain.
Duties of Inspection
These inventory movers are also on the front lines of damage control on occasion. Operators may be required to inspect all inbound and outbound packages, keeping an eye out for things like damaged packaging or faulty labeling, depending on the setting. They may also be in charge of picking orders and ensuring that all inbound freight is properly stocked. This person may also be expected to keep track of paperwork related to the materials they transport.
Precautions for Safety
A forklift is a large piece of machinery that, if not used properly, can cause property damage, injury, and even death. Operators must adhere to all safety regulations set forth by their workplace. They should not only know how to operate a forklift properly, but they should also be very aware of their surroundings. The condition of the ramp, aisle width, and enclosed areas can all put the operator in a dangerous situation. Drivers must also keep an eye out for people walking on the floors who may or may not be in the direct line of sight from the driver’s seat.
Requirements for Training
A license or specialized training may be required for this position, though much depends on the workplace as well as the specific location. No operator under the age of 18 is allowed in the United States, according to the government-sponsored Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA has rules and guidelines for people in this position, such as requiring each operator to inspect his or her machinery at least once a day, checking fluid levels, tires, and safety features. Mounting and dismounting, starting and stopping, speed, maneuvering, parking, and visibility are all governed by agency rules. Employers are usually required to provide paperwork demonstrating that all operators are complying with local and national laws regarding safety and other precautions, and most countries have similar governing rules and training requirements.
Employers may also have additional training requirements beyond what is required by law, such as familiarity with the specific setting. On-the-job training ensures that an operator is not only capable of safely operating the machinery, but is also well-versed in the surroundings of his or her daily routes and tasks. Many on-the-job training courses also include information on how to safely wreck a forklift if the situation becomes critical. On any type of powered industrial truck, wrecks and crashes are unavoidable at times, and training should teach operators how to handle those situations as safely as possible.
Obtaining This Position
A forklift operator typically does not require any special education or experience, and the job is classified as “entry level” in most places. Although some employers prefer employees to have a high school diploma or equivalent, this is not always the case. The ability to take directions, execute orders, and work long hours in conditions that are sometimes very cold, sometimes very hot, and sometimes hindered by dim or overly bright lighting are usually the most important skills. Because these workers rarely work regular 9-5 hours, schedule flexibility is usually required. Experience with machinery is advantageous, but it is not always required, as much can be learned on the job.