Forklift Truck Training
In order to receive certification as a lift truck driver, you must undergo training on an industrial-powered forklift, or lift truck. The training program must be specific to the forklift type and attachments which you will be utilizing on the job. Training should also reflect the environment in which you will be working. Lift truck safety must be a top priority for both the operator trainee and the trainer.
General Credentials
Anyone operating a lift truck should undergo training and certification prior to assuming operator duties. Basic credentials for using a lift truck include being at least 18 years old and the physical ability to safely operate and control the unit.
Pedestrian Safety
The top concern of any lift truck driver should be the safety of pedestrians. Pedestrians in the vicinity of the lift truck are at risk of death or injury from getting hit by the machine or its additions. Pedestrians must always have the right of way, and lift truck drivers must honk their horns when working at intersections or crosswalks or near pedestrians.
Weather Conditions
Lift truck accidents often occur on loading docks. These areas become dangerous if rain leaks in through open dock doors making the floor extremely slippery. Wet floor conditions could lead to a hazard and drivers should know possible hazards when working in loading dock areas.
Certification
Lift truck certification courses include a combination of classroom instruction and practical training tailored to the particular needs of the workplace. Training must be undertaken on the kind of forklift and attachments that will be utilized by the trainee in the workplace.
Mishaps
Every year around 100 people die in forklift mishaps. There are 100,000 forklift injuries reported every year. Most of these accidents are preventable with proper operator training and attention to safety.