What You Should Expect to Learn During Forklift Operator Safety Training

Education & Development Blog

Looking to become a forklift operator? If so, then the first step to landing a forklift operator job is to sign up for a forklift training course. One of the key objectives of the training is to teach you about forklift safety. Operating forklift machines is a dangerous job, and it is important to ensure all persons looking to operate the machines are well-trained on safety. 

Here is a rundown on some of the important things you will learn during forklift operator safety training.

When You Can Operate a Forklift

As part of your operator safety training, you will learn the golden rule that only trained, qualified persons are allowed to operate a forklift. This means that you will have to successfully complete your training and seek the relevant certifications before you can become a qualified forklift operator.

The Need for Pre-Start Checks

Before getting in, turning the key, and operating a forklift, you will be required to perform pre-operation inspections to ensure there are no visible signs of damage to the machine. Faulty forklifts are one of the top causes of forklift accidents.

Inspecting your machine prior to operating it will help to identify any repair issues that may exacerbate or cause injuries if the appropriate repairs are not made early enough.

When You Should Stop Forklift Operation

Safety training for forklift operators also entails letting you know when you should stop operating the equipment. Some of the common reasons to stop forklift operations include the following:

  • When your machine develops problems while in use.
  • If bad weather gets in the way of your job.
  • If you start feeling unwell on the job.

When you halt operations for one reason or another, don't leave the forklift running whilst unattended. Make sure you turn the machine off and remove the key before leaving it.

The Need to Stick to the Forklift's Maximum Weight Capacity 

Forklift machines have a maximum load capacity that should never be exceeded. This load capacity limit is intended to ensure the safety of all those involved in the job. You should only use your forklift to lift and move loads that fall within its load capacity.

The Need to Wear the Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

As a last resort, forklift operators are usually provided with various types of PPE to protect them against certain work-related hazards. Some of the common types of PPE that you will be required to wear include hi-visibility clothing, safety gloves, a hat hard, and safety boots.

As part of your forklift operator safety training, you will learn how to use the proper PPE and why these things are important.

Without the appropriate forklift operator safety training, odds are that accidents and injuries would become a common occurrence. To kick-start your career the right way, enrol in a forklift training course today!

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14 August 2019

Education and Development for Children and Adults

Recently, I have learnt a great deal about different educational opportunities which are available to children and adults. I was enrolling my child in a local school. While I was filling out the paperwork, someone approached me and gave me a leaflet about adult education. I stuffed the leaflet in my pocket and forgot all about it until I was doing the laundry a week later. I was really impressed with the courses on offer so I decided to sign up for a class. I hope this blog helps you to discover more about adult and child education and development.