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