Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift check prior to utilizing the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be done at the beginning of every work shift. Every different machinery as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is essential to make sure that the seatbelt is fastened and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation compared to a regular vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing happens because of the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with great care. 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 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize caution when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it interferes with the vision of the driver.
5 Before loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machinery can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely in control all the time. The main cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in case 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.