In the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a really vital role. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Then again, they must be used safely. Incorrect use of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to workers, and serious accidents which could lead to death.
Safety
If you use a forklift properly, it is quite safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are preventable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators should be trained on the particular type of forklift they will be using on the job. A common kind used inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts commonly used in industry consist of rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which 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 switching employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a conventional forklift. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, leading companies within the global forklift industry. Since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through many technological changes, particularly leading to improvements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.