Be Alert When Using a Forklift Truck
A forklift is a huge piece of machine and therefore safety measures must be taken when operating these kinds of hese types of trucks. Forklift operators are required by law to be taught and qualified to use the equipment. Anyone who misuses a forklift truck could be charged with an offence. Abuse of this potentially dangerous machinery could cause serious injury or death. Safe operation of a lift truck truck involves paying attention both to what is happening inside the vehicle and to what is happening around the vehicle. Not different to driving a car, operating a lift truck requires keeping your attention on the road and being alert of other vehicles and pedestrians.
Important forklift driving tips
Workplace accidents are all too frequent. However, many accidents are preventable by lessening the risks while working with dangerous and heavy machinery.
Most operating surfaces are quite uneven and rough are normally encountered while driving a forklift. The largest hazards are bumps, pot holes, dock bridges, dock platforms, inclines and ramps. Forklifts are designed to deal with surfaces which are rough, but it is the operators responsibility to watch out for these hazards to keep control of the truck.
Visibility is one of the key factors in forklift mishaps. The operator is responsible for ensuring clear visibility when using a lift truck by inspecting that mirrors are positioned properly and that all windows are clean and unobstructed. If a load is placed in such a way that it obstructs visibility for the forklift driver, then the driver must put the forklift in reverse and carefully back down the ramp.
Operators of forklifts are lawfully required to perform every day checks of the forklift truck and its components. A more methodical inspection should be performed weekly. The brakes, engine, forks, tires and so forth must always be tested to ensure that they are correctly working. Proper testing could help to prevent injury and accidents.