Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial machine, the fork truck should be used carefully. However, not like a car, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the equipment a different center of balance. Anybody utilizing a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this equipment must know safe operating procedures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a forklift before using it would involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator has to check. The forks, lifts and the overhead guard must be thoroughly checked. The safety handle must be used when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating correctly, the horns, alarms and lights must be inspected on a regular basis while the monitors and gauges might need to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened prior to starting the truck.
Taking careful turns and choosing a lower rate of speed will help the operator avoid tipping the machine. If the load blocks the operator's vision, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
The driver must always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body in the vehicle so as to prevent any chance of injury. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never raise or lower lifts when you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Never permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is really a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating within aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching person to your presence.