Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machinery, must be utilized with care. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and therefore has a different center of balance. Anyone utilizing a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this particular equipment must understand safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a fork truck first involves inspecting the truck before using it. Operators must inspect for potential dangers like worn tires and fuel leaks. The lifts, forks and the overhead guard should be inspected carefully. The safety handle must be utilized just when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating correctly, the lights, horns and alarms must be inspected regularly whilst the monitors and gauges may have 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 driver's vision, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
The operator must always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all body parts in the vehicle so as to avoid any risk of injury. The forks should be kept several inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts while you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Do not permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety includes stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is a good idea to sound the horn periodically and before proceeding when operating in aisles. That way, you would alert any approaching person to your presence.