Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, similar to any industrial machinery, must be used with care. Not like a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anybody using a fork truck and everyone working in the vicinity of this particular machine should understand workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a fork truck first involves checking the truck prior to driving it. Operators should inspect for potential dangers such as worn tires and fuel leaks. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard must be checked carefully. The safety handle should be utilized only when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are operating properly, the horns, alarms and lights must be checked regularly while the monitors and gauges might have to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machine, take turns cautiously and always choose the low rate speed when driving. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians while driving.
The driver must always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all body parts in the vehicle to prevent any risk of injury. The forks must be kept a few inches above the ground while driving. Never raise or lower lifts while you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Do not permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is really a great idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating in aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching person to your presence.