Operating a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check prior to utilizing the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be done at the beginning of every work shift. Each and every different machine and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 The basic operation of a machine is really as opposed to a standard vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the forklift happens because the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with utmost care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the ground when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is very big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, particularly when carrying a load. The equipment is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the primary cause of operator injuries. The driver must 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 gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.