Forklifts are simple yet complicated vehicles to handle. Operators who handle these vehicles must first get the right training and afterwards get the certification of qualification to drive them. While getting the certification to drive a forklift might seem like everything, it’s just a part of all that is necessary to master when handling the equipment.
Forklifts play a major role in warehouse material handling; they help lift, load, unload, and transport goods within and sometimes outside. However, when handled by an inexperienced operator, these forklift trucks can easily cause accidents or harm other warehouse workers. Sharpening the skills for handling these vehicles is essential, and here is how to do it.
1. Getting The Certification
Not everyone can handle forklifts, and those that can, must undergo the necessary training, complete, and get the certification or licence. This will ensure the correct handling process and help keep the work area safe for all employees.
2. Get The Appropriate Clothing
Forklifts help carry goods from lower levels to upper levels and vice versa. And also they carry goods across. Accidents are inevitable, and when one occurs, the operator should have the right gear to ensure safety. For instance, they should wear safety boots, gloves, hard hats for their heads, and high-visible reflector jackets. Moreover, these clothes must fit perfectly as any loose cloth could easily get caught on the machinery.
3. Keep Up with Practice
To perfect your skill in something, it’s better to keep up with practice. Continuous practice is essential if the operator has the necessary training to handle the forklift trucks. This will help boost their confidence and a strong mindset.
4. Always Examine The Equipment Before Use
While it’s a maintenance routine to do a daily checkup on the forklifts, it’s also a great way for the operator to improve their skills. During these checkups, look for controls, the tires, the mast, faulty brakes, and the warning device. If there are any damages, it’s best to end them as soon as possible. Moreover, the operator should always consider the final destination of the load before picking it up. This is because the loading position might be ideal, but the unloading or stacking position might not.
5. Ensure Safety Before Take Off
The operator should always look out for their safety and that of the other warehouse workers. For instance, if operating indoors and using a diesel forklift, ensure enough ventilation to eliminate the toxic fumes. Moreover, beware of the surroundings; ignoring the tiniest detail or obstacles in front or behind the vehicle could lead to serious repercussions.
6. Minimise Distractions
It’s best to be alert to what’s happening in the surrounding area. However, it shouldn’t take all your concentration. Losing focus or getting distracted could easily lead to accidents. Therefore, always be alert and pay attention to the task at hand.
7. Avoid Hazards
While using forklifts, operators should always avoid uneven ground, bumps, or slippery ground. This could easily cause the load to shift, leading to accidents. Moreover, using horns and headlights when approaching corners or entryways can help alert other operators or employees to stay clear of the path and avoid any collision.
If other trucks are working on the premises, keeping a safe distance is always safe in case one makes an unpredicted move. Additionally, always have enough room when making a stop so that it becomes easy to leave when the time comes.
8. Always Know The Capabilities Of The Truck
There are different forklifts that handle different tasks. Therefore, it’s vital that an operator understands the designated tasks of the truck they are operating and what it can and can’t do. For instance, the operator should only load the truck at its weight limit and drive it where it shouldn’t go. If it’s an indoor truck, keep it indoors, and vice versa.
9. Communication Is Vital
While a forklift can only have a single operator at a time, they are still a part of a larger team, which calls for better communication. Always let your colleagues know what you are doing and if you need help. This will help limit accidents and encourage teamwork in the workplace.
10. Maintain An Appropriate Speed
Forklifts mostly work within a building, so there is always a speed limit to avoid bumping into things, other people, or dropping loads. Therefore, never go past the speed limit, make changes in direction or stop slowly and gradually, and always take turns and corners slowly.
Operating a forklift with utmost safety is the number one way to limit warehouse accidents or injury to self and others. Always understand the equipment you are handling, keep constant practice, and with the help of these tips, you will be a pro before you know it.
