Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Before utilizing the equipment, perform a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be performed every day or each shift. Every different machine along with its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, controls, horn and safety features.
2 When starting up the machine and check the controls, it is important to make sure that the seatbelt is fastened and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look beneath 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 as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift happens due to the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 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 transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the ground when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Only drive backwards if the load is so bulky that it interferes with the vision of the operator.
5 Before unloading and loading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The machine could tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope 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 firmly in control all the time. The primary reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The driver must never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.