Be Alert When Operating a Forklift Truck
A forklift is a large piece of machine and hence safety measures should be taken when using these kinds of\these types of trucks. Forklift operators are required by law to be trained and qualified to use the machine. Anyone who misuses a lift truck truck can be charged with an offence. Misuse of this potentially dangerous machinery could result in death or serious injury. Safe operation of a forklift truck involves paying attention both to what is happening in the vehicle and to what is happening around the vehicle. Not unlike driving an automobile, driving a lift truck requires keeping your attention on the road and being alert of other vehicles and pedestrians.
Important forklift driving tips
Accidents at the workplace are far too frequent. However, many mishaps are avoidable by lessening the risks while working with dangerous and heavy equipment.
Most operating surfaces are quite uneven and rough are usually encountered while driving a lift truck. The largest hazards are generally bumps, pot holes, dock bridges, dock platforms, inclines and ramps. Forklifts are designed to handle uneven surfaces, but it is the operators responsibility to watch out for these hazards to keep control of the truck.
One of the main factors in lift truck mishaps is visibility. Operators are ultimately responsible for making sure that their forklift is operated with clear visibility. This can be helped by checking to make sure that mirrors are correctly positioned and windows are unobstructed and clean. If a load is positioned in such a way that it obscures visibility for the driver, then the operator must put the lift truck in reverse and cautiously back down the ramp.
Operators are required by law to make certain that daily checks are made to the forklift and its components. Weekly, more thorough inspections must also be conducted. The tires, forks, brakes, engine and the rest must always be tested so as to guarantee proper working condition. Correct inspections could help to prevent injury and mishaps.