7 Smart Tips To Help You Be A Better Forklift Operator
June 30, 2022
What are some tips to help you be a better forklift operator?
- Undergo forklift operator training
- Read and understand the manual
- Know the forklift’s capabilities
- Practice using the forklift
- Don’t forget to perform daily checks
- Always prioritize safety
- Get enough rest
Being a forklift operator is a serious responsibility. Your main job is to load and unload various materials and ensure that loads are optimized to ensure efficiency. As a forklift operator, you need to be skilled not only in the technical aspect of operating the forklift, but also know how to follow safety precautions and identify safety hazards. If you want to improve at your job, here are some tips to be a better forklift operator.
Undergo Forklift Operator Training
Before you even start operating a forklift, you need to undergo forklift operator training. This will train you in handling materials inside a warehouse using a forklift. You will learn how to observe procedures and manuals, perform calculations, maintain the equipment, perform pre-and post-operation procedures, and more.
Forklift operator training courses are also important because they can help you to understand what safety precautions to take.
Read And Understand The Manual
A manual will explain how to use a specific model of forklift truck correctly. Not all forklifts are the same, so it’s important to thoroughly read and understand the manual first before starting work with a new forklift.
The manual will contain information that will help you learn how to operate a forklift safely. Other than that, it will list down maintenance procedures that you need to do on the forklift. Aside from operators, personnel that are in charge of maintenance and management of forklifts must also read the manual.
Know The Forklift’s Capabilities
Since there are different forklift models, their capabilities can differ. For this reason, you need to understand a particular forklift’s capabilities, so you can use it properly. Be aware of how much weight it can carry and in what type of environment it should be operated.
For instance, internal combustion forklifts are best for heavy lifting applications because the combustion process generates a tremendous amount of power. On the other hand, electric forklifts are a popular choice indoors because of their clean and quiet operation.
Practice Using The Forklift
Just like in any job or skill, practice makes a huge difference. Driving a forklift safely is also a skill, so if you want to improve your technique and be a better forklift operator, try to practice often. This means taking as many opportunities to operate the forklift in the workplace.
For instance, you might feel intimidated to travel on ramps. It’s a good idea to practice basic driving on ramps first before attempting to lift full loads in your forklift. Other than that, always make it a habit to observe your surroundings when driving. Look up, and see if there are any low obstacles that you may hit. It’s also important to know the height of your forklift and load.
Don’t Forget To Perform Daily Checks
You might be the best forklift driver in the facility, but if you don’t make it a habit to perform checks before an operation, you’re only putting yourself and others at risk. You should be looking after your forklift and ensure that it is in full working order before starting work. Check over the equipment before each use.
Other than preventing accidents, daily checks can also help you point out small problems before they worsen!
Always Prioritize Safety
Safety should be the priority when operating any kind of equipment. Look out for your own safety as well as the people around you on the work site as well. Wear the right gear to protect yourself while working. Instead of driving quickly to get as much work done as possible, it’s important to maintain a steady pace and ensure that your load is balanced and secure. Be aware of any people, vehicles, and objects in your surroundings as well.
If you feel that something is wrong with the forklift or is unsure about anything, always err on the side of caution and get help if needed.
Get Enough Rest
Other than the forklift you’re using, you also need to ensure that you’re in the best condition before working. Get enough rest before your shift, so you can have a clear mind while operating your forklift. This way, you can focus on your tasks, easily identify safety hazards, and make good decisions at work.
Other than that, make sure that you’re also eating right. This will help you become more energized and alert at work.
Key Takeaway
Follow these tips to be a better forklift operator, so you can be better at your job! Remember that being a forklift operator is a responsibility, and you need to ensure that you understand how a forklift works, how to operate it properly, and what safety precautions to take.
If you’re interested in learning more about forklifts, you can read our other blogs here at Multico! As a supplier of the best brand for forklifts, we are knowledgeable and experienced about this material handling equipment.