Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial machinery, the fork truck should be operated carefully. Though, unlike an automobile, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the machinery a different center of balance. Anyone working in the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody operating this machine needs to know safe operating procedures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a forklift prior to using it would 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 thoroughly. The safety handle must be utilized only when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are working correctly, the horns, alarms and lights must be checked on a regular basis whilst the guages and monitors may have to be adjusted. Safety belt must be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
Taking careful turns and choosing a lower rate of speed would help the operator avoid tipping the equipment. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
The driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all body parts in the vehicle to prevent any possibility of injury. The forks should be kept several inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Never allow 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 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.