Utilizing a Regular Counterbalance forklift
1 Prior to operating the equipment, perform a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out each day or each shift. Every different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is important to ensure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look beneath the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs because of the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed with great care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks near the ground and utilize care when approaching loads. Make certain 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. Only drive backwards if the load is very big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Before unloading and loading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The equipment could tip over on a slope. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver must be firmly in control at all times. The primary reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The driver must 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 gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.