Tips & Tricks

Simple Tips for operating a forklift safely

Here are some simple tips to follow to ensure safe forklift operation. Although these tips are fairly basic, they are a good starting point for supporting health and safety policies in the workplace.

Operating new forklifts with the latest safety features, such as speed controls, can improve operator and pedestrian safety significantly increase nearby damage while reducing damage to inventory and capital goods.

1. Operators must be qualified

  • Forklift operations should only be performed by persons who are properly trained and licensed to operate the equipment.

2. Appropriate clothing should be worn.

  • It should be ensured that operators wear appropriate safety work clothing; It usually consists of a helmet, safety shoes and safety vests.
  • Work clothes should fit reasonably well, as loose clothing can get caught in machinery.
  • Do not operate or hold any controls if your hands are oily. ; they may slide and cause an accident.

3. Inspect Equipment Before Use

  • Operators should perform a routine inspection of equipment before operating it. Some things that need to be checked for errors are brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast and tires.
  • If any damage or problems are found, management should be notified and the forklift should not be operated if repair is required.
  • Always think of the 'end the ride". a charge before picking it up. A convenient position for picking up a load may not be suitable for stacking.

4. Starting the Forklift

  • For safety reasons, it is important that the operator uses the steps and handholds to properly sit on the
    forklift.
  • Before starting the forklift, it is important to ensure that all implement controls are within reach and that the position of the seat and mirrors are adjusted to suit the operator's needs.
  • The driver should not start the forklift truck until he is properly seated, the seat belt is fastened and all parts of the body are safely in the driver's or forklift cab.

5 Pay attention to your surroundings

  • While operating a forklift, you must be alert and follow the rules and regulations of the workplace.
  • The operator should use the equipment only to the extent intended for the machine Drive because.
  • Observe all signs, especially the maximum permitted floor loads and clearance heights.
  • Observe the height of the load, the mast and the forklift safety device when entering or exiting buildings.
  • Be careful when operating a forklift near the edge of a loading dock or dock: the forklift may fall over the edge; Keep a safe distance from the edge.
  • Do not work on bridge decks unless they can support the weight of the forklift and
    load.

. Drive at a safe speed

  • Never exceed the speed limit.
  • Take corners and turns slowly to minimize the risk of overturning.
  • change direction, or either gradually and slowly cease.

7.

Avoid hazards

  • Stay away from potholes, uneven surfaces, and slippery conditions.
  • Stay away from loose objects on the ground that could cause loss of control of equipment or cargo moving.
  • Blow the horn when approaching a corner or door/entrance and around people to alert pedestrians or other forklift drivers of your whereabouts avoid unnecessary collisions.
  • Keep a safe distance from other trucks in case they move unpredictably.
  • Make sure you always have enough space to stop safely.

8. Make sure your load is stable and secure

  • Check the load carefully before moving it to determine if it is stable and damaged.
  • It is important to ensure that the load is tipped backwards and lowered forks during transport to increase the stability of the truck.
  • Check that there are no objects in the air before lifting or stacking loads.
  • Do not lift or move loads that are unstable or stable.
  • Ensure loads are properly stacked and positioned on both forks.
  • Stack or slide the load onto the pallet securely and correctly.
  • Use measured restraints, such as ropes or ties, if necessary.

9. Make sure you have clear vision

  • Operate the forklift in reverse when visibility improves; except when going up ramps.
  • It is important to ensure that you have a good view of the rack you are placing your load on.
  • Do not proceed if visibility is poor; In certain circumstances, you may need a guard dog helper to assist you.

10. Forklifts are designed to move loads only.

  • Operators must not allow other people to drive equipment unless another secure seat for a second person is installed on the forklift.
  • If necessary to lift a person, use only a securely attached rope.
    platform and platform and follow appropriate operating instructions.

11. Keep clear of the mast

  • Do not allow anyone to stand or walk under the load or the forklift machine - the load may fall and cause injury or death.
  • Keep hands and feet from the cross brace of the mast: Serious injuries may occur if the mast is lowered by hand.

12. Driving on ramps

  • When you drive up ramps, you drive back and forth on ramps, especially when carrying loads.
  • Do not load or unload cargo or turn while on a ramp.

13. Make sure the forklift is not overloaded

  • Do not use the tips of the forks as a lever to lift a heavy load.
  • Do not push a load with the tips of the forks.
  • Know the capacity of your forklift and any attachments you use and never exceed that capacity.
  • Overloading can cause the rear tires to come off the ground and the forklift to tip over.

14. Make sure the load is evenly distributed

  • Only lift or move a load when both forks are completely under the load.
  • Do not lift a load with one fork. Use pallets and skids that can support the weight of the load.
  • Do not use damaged, warped, or worn pallets to support loads.

15. Refueling

  • A forklift should only be refueled at specially designated locations.
  • Turn off the forklift.
  • With IC engine powered forklifts, open flames are not allowed, no sparks, and refueling should be done in a well-ventilated area.

16.

When the shift ends

  • After use, ensure the forklift is parked in a designated or authorized area.
  • Lower the forks fully to the ground and activate the parking brake.
  • Park the truck and remove the key.
  • Do not leave the truck driving unattended.