Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial equipment, the fork truck must be used carefully. However, unlike an automobile, steering is done on the back wheel giving the machine a different center of balance. Anyone utilizing a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this particular machine has to know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating measures.
Safe operation of a forklift prior to utilizing it will involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator needs to check. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly checked. The safety handle should be utilized when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are working correctly, the lights, horns and alarms must be tested on a regular basis while the guages and monitors might need to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machine, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Be alert of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
The driver should always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside the vehicle so as to prevent any risk of injury. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck might 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 good idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as occasionally when operating in aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching person to your presence.