Operating a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Prior to using the equipment, carry out a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be performed each day or every shift. Every different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machine and check the controls, it is essential to make sure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look underneath the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is really compared to a standard motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs since the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with great caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and use care when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it obstructs the vision of the driver.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, especially when carrying a load. The machinery could tip over on an incline. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the main reason for operator injuries. The driver must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.