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The forklift drivers completed a series of professional tests at Metafrax Chemicals. Traditionally, they had to go through a theoretical stage and demonstrate in practice their skills in handling a forklift and the ability to work with loads of various volumes and specifics.

Eight participants representing the transportation – household division, the production of polyorganics and polyatomic alcohols (POMS) and the AUM complex decided to approve themselves in the profession this year.

Denis Artamonov, Head of the company's Transport Department, Dmitry Zinsky, Head of the transportation – household division, and Yekaterina Rakovits, Deputy Chairman of the trade union organization greeted the participants at the start of the competition. The managers noted that the competition is not just a competition, it’s a confirmation of knowledge, craftsmanship, and practical skills that each participant should possess.

The first challenge for forklift drivers was a test of knowledge of traffic rules and labor protection regulations out of 34 questions. The task was complicated by questions with multiple correct answers.

In the practical part of the competition, the participants had to overcome the traditional stages: slalom forward and backward, stopping near an obstacle, loading and unloading pallets with racks, moving the ring with a fork from one rack to another and entering the garage. Despite the experience that all the contestants have, there was excitement at site. The experts paid attention to every nuance, and there were mistakes. The weather decided to test the participants again, this time by preparing a strong, cold wind for them. Only those who were able to concentrate, build the right tactics and confidently complete the route were in the lead.

Congratulating the contestants, Dmitry Zinsky named the leaders in the theoretical and practical stages, noting that both knowledge and driving skills are important for drivers, and only such a synthesis contributes to high quality work.

This year, Ivan Konnov, an operator for the preparation of raw materials and the release of semi-finished products for POMS, won the title of the best forklift driver. Ivan Astapov, a loader of the transportation – household division, took the second place, and Alexander Mikhaltsov, an operator for the preparation of raw materials and the release of semi-finished products for POMS, took the third place.

Ivan Konnov:

“I got a job at Metafrax last year, I work in the production of paraformaldehyde and took part in a professional skills competition for the first time. I have experience working on a forklift, so I was confident in myself and my abilities. To be honest, I didn't think about places. I set a goal: to drive a practical route faster than anyone else with a minimum of mistakes, and I achieved it. I’m glad that I became the best and confirmed my professional level.”

The winners and runners-up of the competition received well-deserved diplomas and money rewards, and all participants were awarded with corporate gifts. Ekaterina Rakovits thanked all the participants for their courage, craftsmanship, and presented money rewards to the trade union members.