Utilizing a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check before utilizing the equipment. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be performed at the beginning of each work shift. Each and every different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is essential to ensure that the seatbelt is fastened 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 The basic operation of a vehicle is really compared to a standard vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the forklift occurs as the truck steers with its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be made with great care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks near the ground and utilize caution when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Prior to loading and unloading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The equipment can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The lift truck driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the main cause of operator injuries. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.