Checking your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, must be utilized with care. Not like an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and thus has a different center of balance. Anyone using a fork truck and everyone working within the vicinity of this particular machine must understand safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a forklift before using it will involve a visual inspection. Fluid leaks and worn tires are potential dangers that an operator has to check. The lifts, forks and the overhead guard should be checked carefully. The safety handle should be used just when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are working right, the horns, alarms and lights must be tested regularly while the guages and monitors might have to be adjusted. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
Taking cautious turns and choosing a lower rate of speed will help the operator avoid tipping the machinery. If the load blocks the operator's vision, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
To prevent any risk of injury, the operator should always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all the body parts inside. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never raise or lower lifts when you are driving or the truck might become unstable. Do not allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety includes stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is really a good idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating within aisles. That way, you would alert any approaching individual to your presence.