Utilizing a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Before utilizing the equipment, perform a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out every day or every shift. Each different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look beneath the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a regular motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be made with great care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks near the floor and use care when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Before unloading and loading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The equipment could tip over on an incline. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The lift truck operator must always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the main cause of operator injuries. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest method is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.