Getting Aboard the Forklift
The 3-point dismount is among the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the main issue for keeping operator's safety, even though this is usually ignored. For instance, several years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant executed the course perfectly at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so thrilled, that he jumped off of his machinery and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he failed to win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting forklifts is a really serious factor to be included in training. Moreover, having operators wear their seatbelts can really save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is truly vital to know that if a loaded lift truck's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can occur. Trained operators seldom ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is extremely vital that they are prepared for that possibility in case it occurs.
Mount/Dismount
Dismounting and mounting of lift trucks is vital for ensuring the operator stays safe. This is also true even on low platform pallet jacks. There are way too many injuries sustained from utilizing these equipment. Several of the serious situations include: Operator's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and can end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the driver can break or sprain an ankle when they step off of a forklift. The operator can break an arm accidentally while falling and slipping off of the pallet jack. The driver can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold using one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is necessary. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 1 foot and 2 hands or by 2 feet and 1 hand. This stance is precisely like climbing down or up a ladder. Don't forget to always face the machine. Drivers normally have a tendency to hop or jump off the machinery or to face away from the equipment and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall possibility of hurting themselves.
For a lot of companies, Taylors counterbalance lift trucks offer a great solution. They are able to withstand a range of conditions and environments and are extremely durable. They are dependable and made to last.