Getting Aboard the Lift truck
Amongst the keys to maintaining operator safety is the 3-point dismount. Even if this is often overlooked, it is a main issue in maintaining operator safety. For example, several years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant perfectly carried out the course at a forklift rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his machinery and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. He didn't win the competition because he judges ended up docking marks from his overall score.
The importance of mounting and dismounting forklifts is a really serious factor to be covered in training. In addition, having drivers wear their seatbelts can potentially save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is really vital to know that if a loaded lift truck's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation could occur. Skilled drivers seldom ever run into a tip-over situation, however, it is really vital that they are ready for that possibility in case it happens.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of properly dismounting and mounting any kind of forklift, including even a low platform pallet jack is vital to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries occur when complacency happens around these equipment. Several of the serious situations include: Driver's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and can end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the operator could break or sprain an ankle when they step off of a forklift. The operator could break an arm accidentally when slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The operator can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris while they are still hanging onto the handhold utilizing one hand.
In order to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is vital. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 2 hands and 1 foot or by 2 feet and 1 hand. This stance is precisely like climbing down or up a ladder. Remember to face the machinery at all times. Operators often tend to face away from the machine or to jump or hop off the equipment and these mistakes really lessen the overall risk of injury to themselves.
Taylor Counter balance lift trucks provide a great solution for many companies. They could withstand a variety of conditions and environments and are extremely durable. They are reliable and built to last.