Within the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a very important part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they must be used safely. Improper use of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to workers, and serious accidents that can result in death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift properly, it is quite safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are preventable with attention to safety and proper training.
Kinds of Machines
Forklift operators must be trained on the particular type of forklift they will be utilizing on the job. A popular kind used within distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts frequently utilized in industry comprise narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which covers both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a conventional forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in several units. The load capacity of a forklift will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Yale and Clark, the top companies in the international forklift business,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through many technological advances, particularly leading to the safe and efficient movement of product and enhancements in operator safety.