Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift check before operating the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the beginning of each work shift. Every different machine and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the equipment and check the controls, it is vital to make certain 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 signs of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a vehicle is really compared to a regular motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the forklift occurs since the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a major reasons for accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed with great caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize care when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks before unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, specially when lifting a load. The equipment is prone to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator 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.