Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
Like any industrial equipment, the fork truck should be utilized with some care. However, unlike an automobile, steering is done on the rear wheel giving the machinery a different center of balance. Anyone utilizing a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this machine needs to know safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a forklift before using it will involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator needs to inspect. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard must be thoroughly inspected. The safety handle should be used just when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are operating correctly, the horns, alarms and lights must be inspected on a regular basis whilst the monitors and gauges might need to be adjusted. The seat must be adjusted and safety belt fastened prior to starting the truck.
Taking careful turns and choosing a lower rate of speed will help the operator avoid tipping the machine. If the load blocks the operator's vision, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians when driving.
The driver should always sit within the cage enclosure and keep all body parts inside the vehicle so as to prevent any possibility of injury. The forks must be kept a few inches above the ground while driving. Never lower or raise lifts while you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Never permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is really a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as occasionally when operating within aisles. That way, you would alert any approaching person to your presence.