Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, similar to any industrial equipment, should be operated carefully. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and therefore has a different center of balance. Anybody using a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this particular machinery should know safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a lift truck prior to utilizing it will include a visual inspection. Fluid leaks and worn tires are potential dangers that an operator needs to inspect. The lifts, forks as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly checked. The safety handle should be used when the forklift is being mounted.
The horns, alarms and lights must be tested to ensure that they are operating well. Monitors and gauges should be adjusted properly. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machinery, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians when driving.
To avoid any possibility of injury, the driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all the body parts inside. The forks must be kept a few inches above the ground when driving. Never raise or lower lifts while you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Do not permit anybody 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 good idea to sound the horn occasionally and before proceeding when operating within aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching individual to your presence.