Operating a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Before utilizing the equipment, perform a pre-shift inspection. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out every day or each shift. Every different machine and its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, emergency brakes, lights, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly 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 forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift happens because of the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with utmost care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and use caution when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up 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 very bulky that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Prior to unloading and loading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver must be definitely in control at all times. The main cause of 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 holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.