Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, should be used with care. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anyone operating a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this machine should understand safe operating procedures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a fork truck first involves inspecting the truck prior to driving it. Operators should check for potential dangers like fluid leaks and worn tires. The lifts, forks and the overhead guard must be carefully checked. The safety handle should be used when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are working right, the lights, horns and alarms must be checked on a regular basis whilst the guages and monitors might need to be adjusted. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the equipment, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
To avoid any chance of injury, the operator must always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks should be kept several inches above the floor while driving. Never raise or lower lifts while you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Do not allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety involves stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is really a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as occasionally when operating within aisles. That way, you would warn any approaching person to your presence.