Inspecting your Fork Truck for Safety
A fork truck, similar to any industrial machinery, must be operated carefully. Unlike an automobile, a fork truck is steered from the rear wheel and hence has a different center of balance. Anyone working within the vicinity of a fork truck and anybody utilizing this particular machinery needs to know workplace safety guidelines and safe operating procedures.
Safe operation of a forklift before driving it will include a visual inspection. Worn tires and fuel leaks are potential dangers that an operator needs to inspect. The lifts, forks and the overhead guard must be carefully inspected. The safety handle should be utilized when the forklift is being mounted.
The alarms, lights and horns must be inspected to ensure that they are operating properly. Monitors and gauges should be adjusted correctly. Safety belt must be fastened and seat adjusted prior to starting the truck.
Taking cautious turns and choosing a lower rate of speed would help the operator avoid tipping the equipment. If the load blocks the vision of the driver, the truck must be driven in reverse gear. Be aware of the location of any pedestrians and obstacles when driving.
To prevent any risk of injury, the operator must always sit inside the cage enclosure and keep all parts of the body inside. The forks must be kept several inches above the ground when driving. Never lower or raise lifts while you are driving or the truck can become unstable. Do not permit 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 a great idea to sound the horn occasionally and before proceeding when operating in aisles. That way, you would warn any approaching person to your presence.