Operating a Regular Counterbalance forklift
1 Carry out a pre-shift check before operating the equipment. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the beginning of each work shift. Each different machinery as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is really as opposed to a regular vehicle. The forklift has a rear end swing of the forklift happens as the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a main cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be performed with utmost caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the floor when traveling. Utilize caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is so bulky that it obstructs the vision of the driver.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks before loading and unloading. Do not travel on slopes, especially when lifting a load. The machine can tip over on a slope. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator should be firmly in control all the time. The main cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest method is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.