The Traits Every Forklift Operator Needs To Excel

26th Apr 2019

Question:Apart from the forklift certification, what are some of the traits that forklift operators need to excel in the workplace?

Once certified the forklift operator needs to understand that they are operating in a very dynamic environment. What this means for them is that they need to complement their certification with other skills in order to remain both relevant and efficient. Let's take a look at some of these skills;

Ability to Adapt fast

The nature of the material handling business is such that from time to time there will be a change in the processes needed for efficient operation. In most cases, this would mean a subsequent change in the equipment needed to deliver on key tasks. When this happens OSHA recommends that the operator goes through a fresh training focusing on the new equipment. Therefore it is very important that a forklift operator has the capacity to adopt and adapt to changing business needs to ensure they remain relevant to the business.

Ability to Communicate Well

Since in most cases forklift operators work in teams with other workers, communication skills is a very important trait for them to have. It will enable them to communicate their expectations while working with others which will ensure they work in harmony. This trait is also crucial when they are supposed to report incidents within the warehouse that have the potential to cause harm or damage. Such issues can only be addressed sufficiently when they are communicated adequately.

Attention to detail

Carelessness when it comes to material handling has always led to two things- damage to the goods and fatal injuries that lead to death. For this reason, it is important that the forklift operator is keen to understand the detail on the type of inventory being handled and the proper way to handle them. They should also understand the operational details of the equipment they are using and the space they are operating from if they are to operate efficiently.

Ability To Plan and Work In a Team

Efficient forklift operations are determined by how organized the workflow is. Therefore, forklift operators should be able to plan their workflow effectively once the mode of operation has been established and communicated. On the other hand, a good plan is nothing if those participating do not work as a team. They should also have the ability to operate within a team to achieve the operational goals outlined.

Ability To Deliver Under Pressure

The warehouse can be a high-pressure environment that can stretch one to the limits. Normally the deadlines are tight and so the demand is on the forklift operator to deliver within a given timeline. Now if a forklift operator lacks the ability to handle such pressure it can be quite risky. Lack of this ability can easily make them lose control of the safety measures and expose themselves and other workers to fatal accidents.

Therefore every forklift operator should have the capacity to adapt very fast to the changing business demands. Since they will be working in teams they should develop good communication skills and the ability to work with others in harmony. In most cases, the environment they work in is going to be a high-pressure environment. For this reason, they should make sure they can handle working under pressure while paying adequate attention to the important details in the processes involved. 

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