Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial equipment, the fork truck should be operated with some care. Though, unlike a car, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the equipment a different center of balance. Anybody utilizing a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this particular machinery has to know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating measures.
Safe operation of a forklift before driving it will involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator needs to check. The forks, lifts and the overhead guard should be carefully inspected. The safety handle must be utilized only when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are operating right, the alarms, lights and horns should be tested on a regular basis while the monitors and gauges might need to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machinery, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the operator's vision, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be alert of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
The operator should always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body in the vehicle so as to avoid any possibility of injury. The forks must be kept several inches above the ground when driving. Never lower or raise lifts while you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Never allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety includes stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is really a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating within aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching individual to your presence.