If you’re new to forklift operating, you know how intimidating it can be. New forklift drivers need plenty of training and practice to become experts in their field.
Forklifts, also known as powered industrial trucks, can carry several tons of weight, so safety is paramount.
Whether you’re a new operator, or just in need of some refreshing, you may be looking for forklift tips to improve your skills. If so, keep reading to find five top forklift tips for operators of any skill level.
1. One of the Top Forklift Tips Is to Drive Often
When it comes to forklift safety tips, practice makes perfect. Driving safely is a skill, so you’re going to want to drive as much as you can to improve your technique.
In the workplace, try to take as many opportunities as you can to operate the forklift. Or, you may want to invest in forklift training, which can help you get more hours in and learn new skills.
2. Wear Appropriate Clothing
One of our top forklift driving tips is to always dress appropriately. Loose clothing can get stuck in the machinery, so always wear fitted, hi-vis clothes.
You’ll also want closed footwear, a hard-hat, and clean, dry hands—if you try to operate a forklift with greasy hands, you can slip and lose control of the machinery.
3. Consider Your Visibility
When driving in a warehouse, there are plenty of obstacles that can block your visibility. If you can’t see what’s ahead of you, or behind you, it’s not safe to drive.
Always follow all site requirements when it comes to where you can drive, yielding, and take note of the signposted heights. Staying focused on your driving will help you stay safe, so never have your phone out while driving.
4. Make Sure Your Load Is Secure
One of our stand up forklift tips is to make sure your load is balanced and secure. Loads should be equally positioned across both forks and secure with bindings if necessary.
To keep your workplace safe while driving, you may want to organize staff training. Ongoing workplace development not only keeps your workplace safe but also improves employee skills and allows you to measure the skill level of employees.
5. Ask for Help
One of the best ways to become a better forklift operator is to ask for help! We learn new things by stepping outside our comfort zone and asking for help from others.
There are no dumb questions, so always ask a supervisor or colleague if you’re unsure about something. This way, you’ll learn new things and advance your skills as a driver.
Contact Us for Forklift Safety Training
With these forklift tips, you can improve your skills and become a more confident operator. Talented forklift drivers have plenty of career opportunities, so it’s worth taking the time to improve your skills.
If you’re in need of forklift training classes or want to learn more about forklift operations, reach out to Superior Industrial Products. With locations in both Nashville and Fort Worth, we can assist with all of your forklift training or purchasing needs.
Our expert, friendly team look forward to hearing from you, so contact us today.