Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial equipment, should be operated with care. Not like a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and thus has a different center of balance. Anybody utilizing a fork truck and everyone working within the vicinity of this particular machinery must know safe operating procedures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a lift truck before using it would involve a visual inspection. Fluid leaks and worn tires are potential dangers that an operator has to inspect. The forks, lifts and the overhead guard should be thoroughly checked. The safety handle should be used just when the forklift is being mounted.
The lights, horns and alarms should be inspected to ensure that they are operating well. Gauges and monitors should be adjusted correctly. Safety belt must be fastened and seat adjusted prior to starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machine, take turns cautiously and always choose the low rate speed when driving. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians when driving.
The operator should always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside the vehicle so as to prevent any possibility of injury. The forks should be kept several inches above the floor when driving. Never raise or lower lifts when you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Never allow anyone 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 great idea to sound the horn periodically and before proceeding when operating within aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching person to your presence.