Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, similar to any industrial machinery, should be operated with care. Unlike an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and thus has a different center of balance. Anyone utilizing a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this particular machinery has to understand safe operating measures 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 should check. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard must be checked carefully. The safety handle should be utilized only when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating properly, the lights, horns and alarms should be tested on a regular basis while the guages and monitors might have to be adjusted. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before 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 operator, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians while driving.
The driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all body parts in the vehicle to avoid any chance of injury. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor when driving. Never raise or lower lifts when you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Do not allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety includes stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is really a good idea to sound the horn periodically and before proceeding when operating in aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching person to your presence.