Forklifts play an important role within the distribution of goods. They can efficiently transport product through the distribution process. Nevertheless, they must be used safely. Incorrect use of forklifts could result in injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents that could result in death.
Safety
If you use a forklift correctly, it is quite safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on a yearly basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents that involve forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and proper training.
Kinds of Equipment
Depending on the specific type of forklift that would be used on the job, the forklift operator should be trained. A common type utilized inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts normally utilized in industry comprise operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that covers both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a standard forklift. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in several units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Yale and Clark, the top companies in the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through many technological advances, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and enhancements in operator safety.