Is ‘Forklift Operator’ The Right Career For Me?

Forklift operators are required to load and unload heavy goods and move them to and from warehouses. If you can handle the physical side of this job quickly, and you are able to measure weights accurately, then this job may be right for you.

 

Requirements

Although the work may be repetitive at times, there are still many challenges that come with it. You may have to manually carry items that cannot be lifted with a forklift, or you might work in extreme temperatures, moving heavy materials for up to 8 hours a day.

It is important to be physically fit in this job and have good coordination, as you will be asked to follow written instructions and monitor your progress. You will also be required to complete forklift training prior to using a truck, however, there are many apprenticeship programmes that will get you into this role.

Having previous experience in a depot may give you an advantage when applying for such job. In addition, if you are going to be operating a forklift truck on a public road, you will be required to hold a valid and clean driving license.

Training

Most employers provide basic training on how to operate forklift trucks, as well as how to
handle them in different premises. This basic training may last up to one week and takes place at the employer’s site with theory and practical exercises including:

• Using a truck in confined spaces
• Stacking items at various heights
• Checking the equipment before lifting.

Upon successful completion of the training, you will be given a certificate that confirms that you have passed the necessary tests.

Once the basic training is over, you have the opportunity to work towards a Level 2 certificate in forklift truck operations or a similar programme. There is also the health and safety training, report writing, and assessment methods that you can take part in.

From time to time, you will need to take a refresher course in order to update your skills. Further training on working with various other types of forklift trucks is also available for more experienced operators.

To determine whether you have the necessary skills or qualities to become a forklift operator, you should consider the following:

• Do you have a mature and responsible attitude to work?
• Can you learn and work quickly, especially during busy shifts?
• Do you have good physical coordination to work with a forklift truck?
• Can you judge the weights, heights, and distances of the items you will be lifting?
• Can you follow instructions accurately?
• Are you aware of health and safety issues at work?

If you answer yes to most of the above questions, then this job is the right one for you.
Written by East Midlands Forklifts, the regions’ leading supplier of forklifts for sale or hire, as well as repairs and servicing.