Operating a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift check prior to using the machinery. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the start of every work shift. Each and every different machinery together with its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, lights, emergency brakes, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fastened 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 lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a machine is really as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the lift truck occurs since the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting 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 utmost caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the ground when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Prior to unloading and loading, 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 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 primary cause of operator injuries. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.