Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machinery, should be operated with care. Not like a car, a fork truck is steered from the back wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anyone working in the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody operating this particular machine has to understand safe operating measures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a fork truck first includes checking the truck prior to using it. Operators must check for potential dangers like worn tires and fuel leaks. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly checked. The safety handle must be used when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are operating properly, the lights, horns and alarms should be tested on a regular basis whilst the guages and monitors may have to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machinery, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles while driving.
in order to prevent any risk of injury, the driver must always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. 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 could become unstable. Do not permit anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety involves stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is a great idea to sound the horn periodically and before proceeding when operating within aisles. That way, you will warn any approaching person to your presence.