Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machinery, should be used with care. Unlike an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anybody working within the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody operating this machine must know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a fork truck first involves inspecting the truck prior to using it. Operators must inspect for potential dangers like worn tires and fuel leaks. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly inspected. The safety handle must be utilized just when the forklift is being mounted.
The horns, alarms and lights must be inspected to ensure that they are working properly. Monitors and gauges must be adjusted properly. The seat must be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machine, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians while driving.
The driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside the vehicle to avoid any possibility of injury. The forks must be kept several inches above the floor when driving. Never raise or lower lifts while you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Never 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 periodically when operating within aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching person to your presence.