Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift inspection before utilizing the machinery. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the start of every work shift. Each and every different equipment together with its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. Primarily make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machine is really as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs since the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a major reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be made with utmost care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks near the floor and use care when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is so big that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, particularly when lifting a load. The equipment is prone to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver must be definitely in control all the time. The main cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The driver must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.