Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Before operating the machinery, carry out a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be performed every day or each shift. Every different machinery as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. Primarily make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look beneath the equipment after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every kind of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a regular motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a major reasons for accidents and injuries to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with utmost care. These top-heavy machines 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. Use caution when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is very big that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, especially when carrying a load. The machinery can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The lift truck driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the primary cause of operator injuries. The operator 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 holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.