Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machinery, should be operated carefully. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the back wheel and thus has a different center of balance. Anybody working in the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody using this particular machinery must know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a forklift before using it would include a visual inspection. Fluid leaks and worn tires are potential dangers that an operator needs to check. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly inspected. The safety handle must be utilized just when the forklift is being mounted.
The alarms, lights and horns must be tested to ensure that they are working well. Gauges and monitors should be adjusted correctly. Safety belt must be fastened and seat adjusted prior to starting the truck.
To avoid tipping the equipment, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be alert of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
in order to avoid any risk of injury, the operator must always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks should be kept a few inches above the ground when driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Do not allow anyone 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 before proceeding as well as periodically when operating in aisles. That way, you would warn any approaching individual to your presence.