Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to operating the machine, perform a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out every day or every shift. Each different machinery along with its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the equipment after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every type of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a standard vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a major cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with great care. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks near the ground and use 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 machine. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Prior to loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machine could tip over on a slope. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the slope 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 at all times. Tipping over is the primary reason for operator injuries. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.