Forklifts play an important role within the distribution of goods. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nevertheless, they must be used safely. Improper use of forklifts can cause injury to workers, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you use a forklift correctly, it is fairly safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on a yearly basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are preventable with attention to safety and correct training.
Kinds of Machines
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific type of forklift they would be using on the job. A common kind utilized inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually used in industry consist of operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators consist of certification involving both practical evaluations as well as classroom study. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a typical forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in some units. A forklift's load capacity depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, leading companies in the worldwide forklift industry. Since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through lots of technological changes, mostly leading to enhancements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.