Utilizing a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check prior to utilizing the machinery. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the beginning of each work shift. Every different machinery together with its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machine 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 equipment after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every kind of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is basically compared to a standard motor vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs since the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a major reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with great caution. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the floor when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is so big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before loading and unloading. Do not travel on inclines, specially when carrying a load. The machine can tip over on an incline. When driving on an incline 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 driver should never try to jump out of the truck in the event 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.