Getting Aboard the Forklift
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the main factor for keeping operator's safety, even if this is often overlooked. Like for example, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a participator perfectly carried out the course at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his equipment and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. He failed to win the competition because he judges ended up docking marks from his overall score.
The importance of dismounting and mounting lift trucks is a very serious thing to be covered in training. Furthermore, having operators wear their seatbelts could really save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is truly essential to know that if the center of gravity of a loaded forklift moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can occur. Skilled operators seldom ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is extremely important that they are ready for that risk in case it happens.
Mount/Dismount
Dismounting and mounting of lift trucks is essential for ensuring the driver stays safe. This is also important even on low platform pallet jacks. There are way too many injuries sustained from using these equipment. Several of the serious situations consist of: Operator's catching their loose clothing or coveralls when dismounting and can end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the operator could break or sprain an ankle when they step off of a forklift. The driver can break an arm accidentally while falling and slipping off of the pallet jack. The driver could suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold using one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is vital. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 1 foot and 2 hands or by 2 feet and 1 hand. This stance is precisely like climbing up or down a ladder. Remember to always face the machine. Operators usually have a tendency to face away from the equipment or to jump or hop off the machine and these mistakes really lessen the overall risk being injured.
For a lot of businesses, Taylors counterbalance forklifts provide a great solution. They are really durable and could withstand a variety of conditions and environments. They are built to last and dependable.