Forklift ReTraining – Here at American Forklift Training Centers, INC., we have great respect for forklift operators, warehouse workers, and their supervising team.
Reason being, forklift operators are not only major players in our economy, but given their hard work, they have brought much convenience for individuals all around the world. Due to such hard work in lifting, transporting, and delivering heavy loads for various industries – from one location to another – as a society we not only have access to goods via online shopping (which is more important than ever during this pandemic), but we have access to abundant products, roads, bridges, buildings, airports, pipelines, power plants, and more. In fact, without forklift operators, we wouldn’t have the convenience that our modern world spoils us with today.
Accordingly, at American Forklift Training Centers, INC. we take great pride in training and certifying forklift operators. However, even the best forklift operators sometimes have off days or even accidents. During our forklift training, we are open to mistakes, as this is your opportunity to learn from your errors – in a controlled and safe environment. But, not all forklift operators have undergone such training (which makes it all the more a great reason to retrain as a forklift operator if you’re looking to take your teams’ or your own skills to the next level).
If you’re a forklift operator or manage forklift operators, then we’d like to shed light on some of the more common bad habits and problems forklift operators pick-up – even the most experienced – that should be corrected as soon as possible, including speeding, horse playing around, and having limited consideration for safety.
SPEEDING
As mentioned before, at American Forklift Training Centers, INC., not only do we teach students how to properly and safely operate a forklift, but we show forklift operators how to work productively and effectively – creating a win-win situation for the forklift operator and their employer. Nonetheless, many forklift operators have not undergone such training, and they find themselves under the rush and pressure to speed through assignments to meet deadlines and quotas. But the reality is, if you’re rushing through your work, things are more likely to go wrong – and this goes in life in general. Whether you’re sharing this advice to your forklift operators, or you’re a forklift operator yourself, take note that the best forklift operations are done under slow, controlled speed – particularly when traveling on inclines, making sharp turns, carrying loads, or navigating through wet weather, under poor visibility, and/or less than favorable environments. Although it may seem proper to encourage forklift operators to rush to meet demands, in the long run this can be more problematic (and costly) than good. Slow down and work efficiently!
HORSE PLAYING AROUND
At American Forklift Training Centers, INC., we strive to create a family-like, fun environment for our students (existing students and graduates), as we love what we do and firmly believe that learning in an environment with good morale not only helps you with your learning, but it’ll offer you a sense of comfort knowing you’re truly part of a family that has your back (now and in the future) – whether you’re looking for industry job assistance or retraining, we’re here. That said, at times, when in the job, “fun” can be problematic if it’s taken advantage of and forklift operators decide to take safety rules lightly. As forklift operators and supervisors, we should hold one another accountable and remind one another to not violate safety standards (i.e. speeding, standing/riding on the forks, or goofing off while operating forklifts). Even if you’re one of the most experienced in the industry or believe conditions are very safe, do not break safety protocols. Even the smallest safety violation can result in problems that are just not worth it.
LIMITED CONSIDERATION FOR SAFETY
Similarly, at times forklift operators either forget or just neglect to look behind themselves when backing up, slow down at turns, use proper signals, or consider safety restraints. Generally, this arises from limited training or blatant belief that they won’t be held accountable for cutting corners. If you find yourself doing this or your forklift operators are getting into such dangerous habits, it’s crucial to nip it now. Contact American Forklift Training Centers, INC. for forklift retraining.
Proper forklift training and certification is necessary for everyone’s safety, productivity, and cost savings. If you’re looking for training, retraining, or just need to provide your forklift operators retraining – contact us today. (323) 620-7000