How to Become a Forklift Operator
A forklift operator is a skilled worker who operates a forklift to move materials in warehouses or factories. They must be physically fit, have a valid license, and adhere to safety regulations.
Table of Contents
What does a forklift operator do?
A forklift operator, also known as a material handler, moves materials around warehouses and other industrial sites using forklifts and other loading devices:
- Transporting materials: Moving materials from one location to another, such as from loading docks to storage shelves
- Stacking and unstacking: Stacking and unstacking goods from shelves during loading and offloading
- Preparing for shipping: Packaging and preparing materials for shipping
- Maintaining equipment: Regularly checking equipment for faults or damages
- Ensuring safety: Ensuring the team adheres to safety regulations and performing regular maintenance
- Maintaining workspaces: Keeping workspaces clean and organised
- Other duties: Picking, packing, checking and loading products accurately, completing forms, handling documentation and maintaining accurate production records
- Using other vehicles: Driving sit-down and stand-up forklifts and other industrial vehicles such as cherry-pickers and automated pallet jacks.
Is This the Job for You?
Are you a good communicator? Forklift operators need to be able to communicate clearly with others in the warehouse to keep everyone safe.
- Are you a stickler for detail? Being able to notice minor flaws can help prevent accidents.
- As forklift operators are responsible for the safety of those around them, would you be able to adhere to safety controls?
- Inventory control: Forklift operators need to be able to organise inventory to optimise storage space.
- Able to manage your time? Forklift operators need to be able to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines without compromising safety.
- Can you solve problems? Forklift operators need to be able to identify and resolve problems.
- Are you physically fit? Forklift operators need to be physically fit.
- Forklift operators need to have excellent spatial awareness and outstanding
- Co-ordination skills, as well as above average estimation skills.
- Are you flexible and able to adapt to change, learn quickly, retain knowledge and have a strong work ethic?
How to become a Forklift Operator
- Be at least 18 years old but not older than 70
- Have a valid ID or passport
- Have a valid driver’s license and/or pass an eye test
- Be able to read, write and understand English
- Complete training and assessment with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
- Pass a competency test
Recommended Skills
- Detail oriented.
- Manual dexterity and a steady hand to hold a torch in place
- Physical stamina and strength
- Spatial-orientation skills.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Good pay: Forklift drivers can earn a competitive salary. Drivers who work nights, weekends or overtime, can earn more.
- Job security: Forklift drivers are in high demand across many industries.
- Variety of work: They can work in warehouses, construction sites and event venues.
- Career advancement: Forklift drivers can gain experience in leadership and inventory management, which can lead to careers in supply chain management.
- OSHA-compliant training: OSHA-compliant training is available and affordable.
Cons
- Physical and mental demands: The job can be physically and mentally demanding and requires patience and safety awareness.
- Health risks: Forklift drivers may experience muscle weakness, shortness of breath and difficulty concentrating.
- Accidents: Forklift accidents can result in serious injury or death.
5. How much do forklift operator make?
The average SA welder salary is R13,232 per month This can vary based on experience, certifications, location and company. Considering overtime hours and additional projects, your salary can increase. Through training and higher-level certifications, you can advance further in the industry and increase your experience for a higher rate of pay.
Job security and outlook
The salary for a forklift driver in South Africa can vary by city and employer. In Johannesburg, the monthly salary is R12, 091. In Cape Town it is R89, 076 per year and the average monthly salary for a forklift operator at DSV Global Transport and Logistics is R9,722, 6% higher than the national average. (These salary scales are without overtime.) There are also job prospects in Durban (KZN), George (WCape) and Port Elizabeth (ECape)
Educational and training institutions
Registered Trainers Offering Forklift Training in SA:
Toyota Forklift South Africaoffers theoretical and practical training in-person or virtually
Crane Training offers training and job assistance
Petra Training Academyoffers courses for different types of forklifts and typically include a balance of theory and practical training. Beginners may need a minimum of 40 hours of training.
Forklift Training School – Gautech Training Institute