Using a Regular Counterbalance forklift
1 Before utilizing the machinery, carry out a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out each day or each shift. Each different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a vehicle is basically compared to a standard motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs as the truck steers using its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a main reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed 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 Keep forks near the ground when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Before unloading and loading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machinery can tip over on a slope. 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 driver must be firmly in control all the time. The main reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in case 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.