Operating a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Before utilizing the equipment, carry out a pre-shift check. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out every day or every shift. Every different machinery along with its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is vital to make sure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look underneath the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing happens because of the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this information is a major cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with great caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the ground when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks prior to loading and unloading. Do not travel on inclines, especially when lifting a load. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline 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 all the time. Tipping over is the primary cause of operator injuries. 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 holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.