Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, must be operated with care. Not like a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and therefore has a different center of balance. Anybody utilizing a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this equipment needs to know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a fork truck initially includes checking the truck prior to using it. Operators should check for potential dangers such as fluid leaks and worn tires. The lifts, forks and the overhead guard should be thoroughly inspected. The safety handle must be utilized when the forklift is being mounted.
The horns, alarms and lights should be checked to ensure that they are operating well. Monitors and gauges should be adjusted properly. The seat must be adjusted and safety belt fastened prior to starting the truck.
Taking careful turns and choosing a lower rate of speed will help the operator avoid tipping the machinery. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be alert of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians while driving.
in order to avoid any possibility of injury, the operator must always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Do not permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety involves stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is really a good idea to sound the horn occasionally and before proceeding when operating within aisles. That way, you would alert any approaching individual to your presence.