Utilizing a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to utilizing the equipment, perform a pre-shift check. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out every day or every shift. Each and every different machine and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look beneath the machinery after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 The basic operation of a machine is really compared to a regular vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the forklift occurs as the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed with utmost caution. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize caution when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Drive backwards only if the load is very big that it obstructs the vision of the driver.
5 Prior to unloading and loading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The machine can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the primary reason for operator injuries. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.