Getting Aboard the Lift truck
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to keeping operators safe. It is the key issue for keeping operator's safety, even if this is usually overlooked. For example, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a participator perfectly executed the course at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so thrilled, that he jumped off of his machinery and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he failed to win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting forklifts is a very serious thing to be covered in training. Additionally, having drivers wear their seatbelts can really save their lives in the event of a tip-over. It is vital to know that if a loaded forklift's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation could occur. Trained drivers rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is really vital that they are prepared for that possibility in case it happens.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of properly dismounting and mounting any type of forklift, including even a low platform pallet jack is vital to ensuring the operator stays safe. Far too many injuries occur when complacency happens around these machines. Some of the serious situations consist of: Operator's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and can end up falling and breaking their back. At times, the driver can break or sprain an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator can break an arm accidentally while slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The operator could suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold utilizing one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is vital. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 1 foot and 2 hands or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is exactly like climbing up or down a ladder. Don't forget to face the machine at all times. Drivers usually tend to face away from the machinery or to jump or hop off the machine and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall possibility of injury to themselves.
For a lot of companies, Taylors counterbalance forklifts provide a great solution. They can withstand a variety of conditions and environments and are really durable. They are built to last and dependable.