Forklift Operation Safety

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Pre-Operation

Forklifts should be examined once a day at least to make sure they are operatable.

If there is any sign that a forklift is non-operable, unsafe or defective it should be removed and not be used. Following that, this should be reported immediately to a supervisor.

Visual Pre-Check Make sure the engine is off and the key is not in the forklift. Check the water, oil and hydraulic fluid. Look for any cracks or leaks. Any defect of flurid including faulty hoses and mast changes should be reported. You should NOT touch inside the mast for any reason. When checking tension, use an object such as a stick. Check for leaks and cuts on the tires. Look for the top clip, retaining pin and heel of the forks. Check the finger guards as well as backrest extension. All decals, nameplates, warning signs, operator manual and plates should be legible and in their respective places. Finally, look for grease and debris, then make sure the seat belt is working properly.

Operational Check FIrst, make sure the engine is running.

Check the brakes, steering, and accelerator.

Next check the drive by going forward and reversing, then the tilt by tilting forwards and backwards. Check the hoist as well as the lowering control, and the attachment control even if you are not attaching anything. Test the horn, lights, hour meter and back-up alarm. Listen for any unusual noises and report if you hear any.

What operational problems are possible with a forklift? Select all that apply

Driving the Forklift

Operating a forklift, you must ALWAYS follow the safety rules, maintain a clear visual of your environment and stay at a safe speed.

When Mounting the Forklift Make sure your hands are dry and your shoes are free of grease when entering the forklift. This is to prevent slippage. Use the handhold to let yourself in with and maintain a tight grip. Grabbing the steering wheel is not advised because it could move and throw you off balance. Watch your step! It's easy to fall when mounting and dismounting from vehicle. When dismounting, DO NOT JUMP! Your footwear should have treads that grip to prevent any falls.

Steering & Turning

As stated before, slow down when you are approaching turns and remain cautious, especially in narrow spaces. You will have a rear-swing when you turn, so plan your route ahead of time and anticipate when you will have to turn.

There are two instances you should NEVER turn: When the fork is elevated. When you're on a grade (to avoid tipover).

Tipovers If you happen to tip over, still do not jump, stay where you are. While you are tipping: Grip the steering wheel. Brace yourself with your feet. Lean away from where you're going to hit the ground, and then lean forward.

Load Handling

Handling Loads Safely Secure your load so it's stable. If the load is damaged, using wrapping or other means to keep it together. Center your load and distribute the heaviest parts closest to the front wheels. Know the weight limit of the particular forklift you're using and do not go above that. This can cause tipover.

Lifting the Load As stated before, make sure there's enough head room when lifting loads. Also watch out for hanging lights, pipes or sprinkler systems.

Check for any obstructions when loading, then slowly put the lift control in the neutral position before moving again.

Lowering the Load When lowering your load, come to a complete stop. Before lowering, put the mast into its original position. Do not lower the load below 6 inches (or 15 - 20 cm).