Useful Forklift Safety Tips For The Workplace
Federal law requires that all forklift operators undergo training in order to be allowed to operate a forklift. During this training, they are not only taught everything there is to know about the forklift and how to operate it; they are also taught forklift safety tips that will keep themselves and others around them safe.
Forklifts are much more difficult to drive than a regular automobile; it takes special training and experience to know how to operate a forklift safely. Forklifts have rear-wheel steering so the rear of the forklift swings out when making a turn. Due to the way that forklifts are designed, they are much more difficult to steer and stop than any other type of vehicles.
It is always a good practice to check for any safety issues or defects prior to every shift. Checking the following things will go a long way in ensuring safety:
Forklift Safety Tips
Practical Forklift Safety Tips
o Check to make sure the horn is working
o Make sure there are no hydraulic leaks in the mast . This could lead to hydraulic failure
o Make sure fuel connection and battery terminals are secured tightly
o Make sure there is no grease, lint or oil on the forklift
o Make sure the engine doesn’t show any signs of overheating
o Make sure the tires have the proper amount of pressure in them
o Make sure all the controls work smoothly
o Make sure that the lights are working
o Make sure there is no play in the steering
o Make sure the brake bring the forklift to a smooth stop. Sudden stops can causing tipping
o Make sure the parking brake will hold on an incline
After checking to ensure that all parts are functional and the forklift is free of mechanical malfunctions, there are several safety rules that should always be followed when operating a forklift:
o Always remain aware of pedestrians and make sure to give them the right-of-way
o Never allow anyone to walk or stand under a raised forklift
o Make sure you always have a clear view of your path
o Never allow a person to get between the lift and a hard surface
o Never allow anyone to ride on the forklift for any reason
o Always make your presence known by using the horn and lights
o Never park on an incline
o Always use your seatbelt
o Always look behind you before backing up
o Always make sure the dock plate is secure before driving over it
o Avoid sharp turns at all costs, this can cause the forklift to tip over
o Don’t allow unauthorized drivers operate your forklift
o If the load obstructs your view, drive in reverse
o Keep your arms, legs, head and feet inside the forklift at all times
o Never drive with the lifts up
o Obey speed limits, floor markings and other road signs
o Never pass another forklift going in the same direction
o Slow down when driving on slippery or wet surfaces
o When parking your forklift, make sure the forks are fully lowered, put the forklift in neutral, turn off the engine and secure the parking brake
Following these forklift safety tips will ensure that both the forklift driver and others in the work area are safe. One cannot underestimate the importance of following all safety precautions when operating a forklift on the job.