Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial machine, the fork truck must be used carefully. Though, not like a car, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the equipment a different center of balance. Anyone working in the vicinity of a fork truck and anyone operating this machinery must understand safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a lift truck prior to driving it would involve a visual inspection. Fluid leaks and worn tires are potential dangers that an operator should check. The forks, lifts and the overhead guard must be carefully inspected. The safety handle should be utilized just when the forklift is being mounted.
The alarms, lights and horns should be checked to guarantee that they are operating properly. Monitors and gauges must be adjusted properly. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the equipment, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
To avoid any chance of injury, the driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor when driving. Never raise or lower lifts when you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Never allow anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety involves stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating within aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching individual to your presence.