Utilizing a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift inspection before operating the machinery. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be carried out at the beginning of every work shift. Every different machinery and its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machinery after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a standard vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs because of the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a major reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed with utmost caution. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize caution when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, specially when lifting a load. The machinery is prone to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be definitely in control all the time. The main reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The driver should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.