Before driving a forklift it is important to know the safety procedures required to avoid cases of accidents and injuries. A forklift is a powerful equipment that is used to lift and transport heavy items, and this power has to be utilized safely. It is crucial that each forklift operator follows these guidelines regardless of their level of experience or expertise.
1. Training and certification are essential
It is important for all forklift operators to receive adequate training and to pass the certification tests. In this course, you will be trained on how to maneuver a forklift, assess risks, and apply safety measures. A certified operator is in a position to address probable dangers and comprehend how to go about in managing the forklift safely. Also, one should continue practicing the skills learned during the training, and refresh the knowledge of safety measures by attending classes periodically.
2. Inspection before operation
Carry out a pre-operation check on a forklift before operating it for the first time. In this inspection, it is required to inspect the brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, and tires. Ensure that the forklift is not damaged or has not developed any signs of wear and tear. Hence, if one has a forklift, by ensuring that it is properly maintained, accidents can be averted.
3. Identifying load limits
Every forklift has a maximum load capacity that must not be overrun. By overloading a forklift, it can easily overturn, which causes fatal accidents. Ensure that the load with the attachments of the forklift does not surpass the load capacity plate of the forklift. A safe operation also entails proper load securing and even weight distribution.
4. Follow safe operating practices
The principles of forklift safety operating methods are important more so when it comes to the use of the forklift. Wearing of seat belts while in the forklifts is something that should always be used. Be careful when driving especially when approaching sharp curves or any area that may contain a good number of people. Use mirrors to ensure that you have an outlook of areas that you cannot easily see, and most importantly the other roads ahead of you. However, it is advised not to jerk the forklift’s wheel to make sudden PIVOTs or stops as when this is done, the forklift may lose balance.
5. Awareness of Surroundings
Operators should always remain alert of their environment when they are conducting their operations. Watch out for people, objects and other cars/vans/trucks. If for instance you are approaching a corner or an area with many people use your horn to clear the way. This means that there should be clear demarcation of the pedestrian aisles that should also be observed by the operators in the facilities such as the warehouse.
6. Proper Use of Attachments
Various kind of loads are faced by a forklift which is countered with the help of various attachments such as clamps, rotators, and extensions. Each causes a change in the load capacity and center of gravity of the pick up truck. The attachment should also be fit for the type of forklift used and the operator should also be in a position to use it. The loads and the forklifts can be damaged if the proper use of attachments is not employed.
7. Policies related to parking and shutdown
The forklifts must be parked in specific areas after use or when not needed for a while. Parking brake to be applied, forks to be lowered, and the engine to be off. Forklifts used especially on slopes should be secured by the use of wheel chocks to avoid movement when parked. This ensures that when the forklift is not in use people cannot access it hence minimizing the incidences of accidents.
8. Regular Maintenance and Repairs
Maintenance and repairs of a forklift as agreed in the time maintenance schedule are an important aspect in its overall health. Always stick to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding maintenance and repair and don’t delay until worsening. Battery condition, tire pressure, and fluid levels are some of the things that should not be missed while carrying out interior checks and maintenance. You’ll agree that with proper maintenance, such mishaps are unlikely to happen and this is the case for forklifts.
9. Keeping up with industry updates
A safe workplace depends on the relevant and updated information on forklift news and other related events. Finally, the rules and the general practices may be adjusted, so it is beneficial to learn the new ones to follow them. Regional associations, safety conferences, and circulation of new safety standards in magazines are useful in ensuring that operators as well as employers are aware of changes in safety procedures.
