Forklifts also called powered industrial trucks, help us carry out essential tasks. But they are likewise rather hazardous. Forklift safety is a major obligation and needs to be taken seriously. All forklift drivers must be effectively trained. They should also follow all safety procedures and precautions.
Below are some of the fundamental safety practices that all forklift drivers are expected to observe.
Forklift Safety When Loading
- Avoid raising or reducing a load while the truck is moving.
- Always keep the load tilted back towards the carriage while raising and lowering the forks.
- Never utilize the forks as a personnel elevator unless appropriate lift box is in place.
- Use reverse when using inclines and go forward up inclines.
- Don’t take a trip with the load raised. Keep the load steady and as close to the flooring as possible.
- Make sure the load is well balanced and is within the capability of the truck.
Forklift Safety When Driving
- Always make sure your driving path is unobstructed.
- Never place legs, arms, feet, hands, and head outside of the truck.
- Always provide those on foot the right-of-way.
- Never attempt to turn on a slope.
- Cross tracks diagonally and decrease speed for irregular floors and surfaces.
- Slow down for corners, blind spots, and entrances.
- Drive defensively by always knowing your surroundings and watching for the unexpected.
- Don’t ever go underneath forks or their loads.
- Never show off or use the device for anything other than your specified tasks.
- Never offer anyone a ride or permit anybody who is not certified to operate the forklift.
- Each day, prepare the truck for the day’s work and perform any essential maintenance prior to operating.
- Report any breakdown or bad performance to your supervisor immediately.
Take your safety and the security of everybody in the workplace seriously. To do so, it’s essential that all forklift drivers operate their machinery properly and with security in mind.