Operating a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Prior to using the machinery, perform a pre-shift inspection. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out each day or each shift. Every different equipment along with its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is basically as opposed to a regular motor vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the forklift happens since the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with great caution. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the ground when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, specially when lifting a load. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator should be definitely in control all the time. The primary cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The driver should never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.