In the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a very vital part. They could efficiently move product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they must be used safely. Incorrect operation of forklifts could cause injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents which could lead to death.
Safety
Forklifts are rather safe as long as they are utilized properly. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents that involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are avoidable with correct training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Depending on the particular kind of forklift that will be utilized on the job, the forklift operator should be trained. A common type utilized in distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually utilized in industry consist of rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators comprise certification involving both classroom study as well as practical evaluations. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity would depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Yale and Clark, the top companies within the worldwide forklift business,were the first to develop forklifts. Since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological advances, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.