In the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a really important role. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they must be used carefully. Incorrect use of forklifts could result in injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents which can result in death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift correctly, it is fairly safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are avoidable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Machinery
Depending on the particular kind of forklift that would be utilized on the job, the forklift operator should be trained. A popular kind used in warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually used within industry include narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators include certification involving both practical evaluations as well as classroom study. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
Typical forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. 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 attachments and options.
History
Clark and Yale, the leading companies in the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through various technological changes, particularly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.