Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, like any industrial machine, should be utilized with care. Not like an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the back wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anyone operating a fork truck and everybody working in the vicinity of this particular machine has to understand workplace safety guidelines and safe operating measures.
Safe operation of a lift truck before utilizing it will include a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator should check. The lifts, forks as well as the overhead guard must be inspected thoroughly. The safety handle should be utilized when the forklift is being mounted.
To guarantee that they are operating properly, the alarms, lights and horns must be tested on a regular basis while the guages and monitors may have to be adjusted. The seat should be adjusted and safety belt fastened prior to starting the truck.
Taking cautious turns and choosing a lower rate of speed would help the operator avoid tipping the machinery. If the load blocks the driver's vision, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be alert of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
The operator should always sit in the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside the vehicle to avoid any risk of injury. The forks should be kept several inches above the floor when driving. Never lower or raise lifts when you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Do not allow anybody to walk under lift when the engines are running.
Stopping at intersections and watching for approaching traffic are basics for driving safely. It is really a good idea to sound the horn before proceeding as well as periodically when operating in aisles. That way, you would warn any approaching person to your presence.