Operating a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Carry out a pre-shift inspection before operating the equipment. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be carried out at the start of each work shift. Each different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is vital to ensure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look beneath the equipment after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is really compared to a standard vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the lift truck happens since the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done 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 When traveling, keep the forks near the ground and use care when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, particularly when lifting a load. The machinery can tip over on an incline. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The lift truck driver should always be in firm control all the time. Tipping over is the main reason for 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 gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.