In the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a really vital part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they should be utilized safely. Improper use of forklifts can cause damage to products, injury to workers, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are rather safe as long as they are utilized properly. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and proper training.
Types of Equipment
Forklift operators should be trained on the specific type of forklift they would be utilizing on the job. A popular kind utilized inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts commonly used in industry include narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators comprise certification involving both practical evaluations as well as classroom study. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
Conventional forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift would depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Yale and by Clark, top companies within the global forklift industry. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through numerous technological advances, mostly leading to improvements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.