Operating a Regular Counterbalance forklift
1 Before utilizing the machine, perform a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be performed every day or every shift. Each different machine 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 make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly 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 every type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a regular motor vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing happens because of the fact that the truck steers using 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 utmost 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 Keep forks close to the floor when traveling. Use care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is so bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, particularly when carrying a load. The equipment is prone to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift operator should always be in firm control all the time. Tipping over is the main cause of operator injuries. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.