Operating a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift inspection prior to utilizing the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the start of each work shift. Every different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation as opposed to a regular vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a major cause of accidents and injuries to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be performed with utmost care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the ground and use care when approaching loads. Make sure that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is very big that it obstructs the vision of the driver.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, especially when lifting a load. The machine could tip over on an incline. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift driver must always be in firm control all the time. Tipping over is the primary reason for operator injuries. The driver must 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.