Operating a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to utilizing the machine, perform a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out each day or every shift. Each and every different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, emergency brakes, lights, controls, horn and safety features.
2 When starting up the machine and check the controls, it is vital to ensure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look beneath the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every kind of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation as opposed to a regular motor vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs because of the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main reasons for accidents and injuries to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be performed with great care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize care when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is so bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Before loading and unloading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The equipment could tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be definitely in control at all times. The primary reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.