Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift inspection prior to operating the machinery. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be performed at the start of every work shift. Every different machine and its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, controls, horn and safety features.
2 When starting up the equipment and check the controls, it is essential to make sure that the seatbelt is fastened and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look underneath the equipment after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every type of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a regular vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing happens due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main reasons for injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be made with great caution. These top-heavy machinery 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 near the floor and use care when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is very big that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks before loading and unloading. Do not travel on slopes, especially when lifting a load. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The lift truck driver must always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the main reason for operator injuries. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in the event 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.