Operating a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift inspection prior to operating the machinery. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be performed at the beginning of every work shift. Each different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First ensure your seatbelt is fixed firmly 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 kind of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a standard motor vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing happens due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this information is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be performed with utmost care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize caution 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. Only drive backwards if the load is very big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to loading and unloading. Do not travel on slopes, especially when lifting a load. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely in control at all times. The primary reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The driver should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.