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Forklift operators use a forklift to move materials
safely and efficiently. They often work in an environment such as a warehouse,
where large quantities of stock must be regularly loaded onto or unloaded from a
cargo vehicle or vessel. If you would like to become a forklift operator, you
must be willing to complete operator’s training and maintain up-to-date
certification. As the job can be physically demanding, you must also demonstrate
adequate levels of fitness and agility.There are no formal educational
qualifications required to become a forklift operator, but many employers prefer
to hire candidates who have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent. The
operator may handle order forms and other paperwork, and in some cases might be
required to use a computerized inventory system. Thus, literacy as well as basic
computer skills are desirable. In the US, the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) requires all employers to ensure that their forklift
operators have received training in safe operating procedures. This measure is
intended to reduce accidents in the workplace and promote the well being of the
operator as well as his fellow employees. Thus, if you wish to become a forklift
operator you must successfully complete a training program. This course may be
offered by your employer as part of an on-the-job training program or it may be
completed independently through an accredited occupational training institute.
Training typically begins with classroom hours, in which operator candidates
attend lectures and watch videos that demonstrate safe driving techniques and
outline potential workplace hazards. Once this segment of the course has been
completed, candidates advance to practical training. During this period, they
practice operating a forklift under the supervision of an instructor, who
constructively critiques their performance. After an operator candidate has
satisfactorily completed training, he is issued certification. In keeping with
OSHA regulations, this certification must be renewed every three years. To be
approved for renewal, the operator and his performance must be evaluated by his
employer.If you wish to become a forklift operator, you should also note that
the job can be physically demanding. Operators must have sufficient agility to
climb onto and off of their forklifts easily, as well as drive in reverse
comfortably. In some cases, the operator may be required to physically load or
unload pallets. Therefore, you should make sure you are fit enough to meet the
physical challenges of the job. |
