Utilizing a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check prior to using the equipment. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be done at the start of each work shift. Each different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. First make sure that 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 each kind of forklift is different.
3 The basic operation of a machinery is basically as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the forklift happens since the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this detail is a major cause of injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be done with utmost care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the floor when traveling. Utilize caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Prior to loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The equipment is prone 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 lift truck operator must always be in firm control all the time. Tipping over is the main cause of operator injuries. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in case 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.