Getting Aboard the Forklift
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the main factor for keeping operator's safety, even though this is often ignored. For example, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant executed the course perfectly at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his machine and totally forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he didn't win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting forklifts is a really serious thing to be included in training. Moreover, having drivers wear their seatbelts can really save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is truly necessary to understand that if the center of gravity of a loaded lift truck moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can happen. Skilled operators rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is extremely vital that they are prepared for that possibility in case it occurs.
Dismount/Mount
The importance of properly dismounting and mounting any type of lift truck, including even a low platform pallet jack is vital to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries result when complacency happens around these equipment. Several of the serious situations include: Operator's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and could end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the driver could sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a forklift. The driver could accidentally break an arm while slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The driver could suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold with one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is essential. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 2 hands and 1 foot or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is precisely like climbing down or up a ladder. Remember to always face the machine. Operators usually have a tendency to hop or jump off the equipment or to face away from the machine and these mistakes really reduce the overall possibility being injured.
For numerous companies, Taylors counterbalance forklifts provide a great solution. They can withstand a range of conditions and environments and are extremely durable. They are dependable and made to last.