Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, should be used with care. Unlike a car, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anyone using a fork truck and everybody working within the vicinity of this particular equipment must know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating measures.
Safe operation of a lift truck prior to driving it will include a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator must check. The forks, lifts as well as the overhead guard must be thoroughly checked. The safety handle must be used when the forklift is being mounted.
To ensure that they are operating correctly, the lights, horns and alarms must be tested regularly whilst the guages and monitors might have to be adjusted. Safety belt should be fastened and seat adjusted prior to starting the truck.
Taking cautious turns and choosing a lower rate of speed will help the operator avoid tipping the equipment. If the load blocks the vision of the operator, the truck should be driven in reverse gear. Always be alert of the location of any obstacles and pedestrians when driving.
in order to avoid any risk of injury, the driver should always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all the body parts 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. Never allow anyone to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is a good idea to sound the horn occasionally and before proceeding when operating in aisles. That way, you would warn any approaching individual to your presence.