Within the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a really important role. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they must be used safely. Improper operation of forklifts could cause injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe so long as they are utilized correctly. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and correct training.
Types of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific type of forklift they will be using on the job. A popular type utilized inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually used within industry include rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which includes both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a standard forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity would depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, top companies in the global forklift business. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through many technological advances, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.