Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, must be utilized with care. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the back wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anybody operating a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this particular equipment should understand safe operating procedures and workplace safety guidelines.
Safe operation of a lift truck before utilizing it would involve a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator must inspect. The lifts, forks as well as the overhead guard should be thoroughly inspected. The safety handle should be utilized when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are working correctly, the horns, alarms and lights should be tested on a regular basis whilst the guages and monitors might have to be adjusted. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted before starting the truck.
To prevent tipping the machine, always choose the low rate speed when driving and take turns cautiously. If the load blocks the operator's vision, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be alert of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
To prevent any risk of injury, the operator must always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks must be kept a few inches above the floor while driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck could become unstable. Do not allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Basic driving safety involves stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic. It is a good idea to sound the horn occasionally and before proceeding when operating in aisles. That way, you will alert any approaching person to your presence.