Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to utilizing the equipment, carry out a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be performed each day or every shift. Each and every different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, 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 underneath the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machine is basically as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs as the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done with great caution. 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 Keep forks close to the floor when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is so bulky that it obstructs the vision of the driver.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, specially when carrying a load. The machinery is prone to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely in control at all times. The main reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.