Forklifts play an essential role within the distribution of goods. They can efficiently move product through the distribution process. However, they should be used safely. Improper use of forklifts can result in damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe as long as they are operated properly. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each and every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are preventable with attention to safety and correct training.
Types of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the particular kind of forklift they will be using on the job. A common type utilized inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts normally utilized in industry consist of rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that includes both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a standard forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Yale and by Clark, top companies in the worldwide forklift business. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through many technological advances, particularly leading to improvements in operator safety and the safe and efficient movement of product.