Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machinery, must be operated carefully. Not like an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the back wheel and thus has a different center of balance. Anyone working within the vicinity of a fork truck and anyone utilizing this particular equipment must know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a fork truck initially includes inspecting the truck prior to driving it. Operators should check for potential dangers like worn tires and fuel leaks. The forks, lifts and the overhead guard must be carefully checked. The safety handle must be utilized just when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating correctly, the alarms, lights and horns must be inspected regularly while the monitors and gauges may have to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
Taking careful turns and choosing a lower rate of speed would help the operator avoid tipping the machinery. If the load blocks the driver's vision, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
The driver should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all body parts inside the vehicle to avoid any chance of injury. The forks should be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts while you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Never permit anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is a good idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as occasionally when operating in aisles. That way, you would alert any approaching individual to your presence.