How to Include the Forklift Operators in the Digital Checklist Evaluation

As forklift pre-operation checklists continue to move from paper to digital, it’s no secret how it makes the manager’s job easier but forklift operators are not as convinced. Many times, managers make the decision to move to digital forklift pre-operation checklists without the operator’s input or buy-in. Instead, there are many cases where one day it’s on paper, and the next there’s this technology hanging from the forklift truck and the operators are told to use it.

Share the Plan

As a manager, if you want the new project to be used, bring the operators into the process. Let them know why the company is going to move from paper checklists to digital forklift checklists. Share how their input on the digital checklists helps to keep forklifts running properly. Remind them that all companies are mandated to comply with OSHA regulations and what happens when there is a missing or false forklift pre-operation checklist. Also, let them know the impact detection that comes with the forklift checklist system, becomes their extra set of eyes that helps them see people that are in their blind spot. As you can image, you can list many more reasons.

Provide Updates

Let the forklift drivers know the updates as you progress in your evaluation. Post updates on a bulletin board in the lunch room and / or give verbal updates at your operations or staff meetings. Keep them abreast of the next steps and when they will get involved.

When you are ready for the forklift operators to be a part of the process, give them details. Let them know who they will be evaluating and why you’ve chosen them. For instance, you’ve decided to evaluate the SIERA.AI S2 Digital Inspection with Impact Detection. You’ve chosen the solution because you believe it will:

• Capture information on the forklift that is pertinent with adding, deleting or editing questions and answers
• Help maintenance schedule forklift maintenance and repairs before it gets out of control
• Support the operators better by identifying their strengths and make better training improvements where needed

Get underreported impacts in order to help make the environment safer by alerting them when pedestrians are out of site

Maintenance First

Now that you’ve decided to trial the S2 Digital Inspection with Impact Detection, it’s time for maintenance to know the ease of installation. As SIERA.AI has the train the trainer program, the maintenance technicians will understand the process for installation and the 30 minutes it takes to install on each machine.

Forklift Operators Turn

Now it’s the forklift operators turn. Let them experience how the forklift will not start without their badge or PIN number. Then allow the drivers to scan their badge or enter a PIN number. Once in the system, let the operators go through the checklist and touch the screen. Show them that if they see something that needs attention, like spilled product or slippery wet spots, that they can report it on the system. (if you’ve put that in as an option)

Let them also experience what information is also captured with a low, medium or high impact. Take the time to show them the telemetry Dashboard so they know what it is tracking and why. If you go to a forklift operator and offer tailored training, they will support your decision and become better equipped at their job.

Try Time

It’s time to try the S2 Digital Checklist and we’ll help support your plan to include the forklift operators. Move from paper based to digital forklift pre-operational checklists and maintain OSHA compliance. Contact us today at sales@siera.ai.