Operating a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Perform a pre-shift check prior to operating the machinery. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be done at the start of each work shift. Every different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machine and check the controls, it is essential to make sure that the seatbelt is fastened and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look under the machinery after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each type of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation as opposed to a regular vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs because of the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a major reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 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 lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the floor when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is so big that it interferes with the vision of the driver.
5 Before loading and unloading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be definitely in control at all times. The main cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in the event 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.