Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial machinery, the fork truck should be utilized carefully. Though, unlike a car, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the machinery a different center of balance. Anybody working within the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody using this machinery needs to understand workplace safety guidelines and safe operating measures.
Safe operation of a lift truck prior to utilizing it will involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator needs to inspect. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard should be checked carefully. The safety handle must be used when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating correctly, the lights, horns and alarms must be inspected regularly while the monitors and gauges might need to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened prior to starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the equipment, take turns cautiously and always choose the low rate speed when driving. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Be alert of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians when driving.
in order to prevent any risk of injury, the operator should always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all the body parts inside. The forks should be kept a few inches above the floor when driving. Never raise or lower lifts while you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Never allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is a good idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as occasionally when operating within aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching person to your presence.