Within the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a very vital part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Then again, they should be utilized carefully. Incorrect operation of forklifts can result in injury to workers, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe so long as they are operated properly. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on a yearly basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and correct training.
Types of Equipment
Depending on the particular kind of forklift that will be used on the job, the forklift operator must be trained. A common kind utilized in distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts usually utilized within industry include rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators consist of certification involving both classroom study as well as practical evaluations. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a conventional forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Clark and Yale, the top companies in the international forklift business,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has undergone various technological advances, mostly leading to improvements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.