Operating a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check before operating the machine. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be done at the beginning of every work shift. Every different machinery and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is essential to ensure that the seatbelt is fastened and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation compared to a regular vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this detail is a main cause of injuries and accidents to workers. 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 lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the floor 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 necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is so bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Prior to loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The equipment is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver must be firmly in control all the time. The main reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator should 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.