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Important safety techniques for operating a forklift
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INtroduction A forklift is a vehicle that is used to transport heavy goods and storage material from one stop to another within a warehouse. A forklift could be carrying heavy loaded boxes or empty boxes that need to be loaded with goods; although no matter what the situation the forklift must always been driven under the safety rules set by the warehouse manager.
1. Qualified Operators • The forklift must be operated only by individuals that possess a valid license to operate the forklift and have been trained for the same.
2. Appropriate Clothing • The operator of the forklift must be wearing a hard hat, safety shoes and hi-visibility jackets. • The clothes must be well fit as loose fitting clothes can cause hazards around the machines and get stuck in some machinery. • Do not operate any controls of a forklift with greasy hands, this could lead to an unwanted command and cause an accident
3. Always Examine Equipments • Always do a routine check with the equipments before driving the forklift. Make sure you check the functionality of the brakes, steering, controls, warning devices and tyres. • Never operate the forklift if it needs any kind of repair work, notify the management and get it fixed before operating it.
4. Safe Speed • Never cross the speed limit. • While making turns make sure you slow down the vehicle, this reduces the chances of it tipping over.
5. Load Must Always Be Stable and Secure • Always check the loads before you move the forklift, go ahead with the movement only after you have ensured that the loads are secure. • Increase the truck stability by tilting the load with the forks below the load. • Make sure there are no tunnels or obstacle in the way before lifting or stacking the loads. • Make sure the weight of the loads is equal on both the forks and it is stable. • Use securing measure like ropes or binding when necessary.
6. Clear Visibility is Essential • Always make sure that the load does not block your vision; this could lead to an accident. • You must also have clear visibility of the racking in which you are positioning your load. • Make sure you do not drive if you have poor visibility; in some situations you could also need a helper to assist you with the directions. • You can also drive the forklift in reverse to ensure that you have a clear vision.
7. After The Shift Ends • Always park the forklift only in the designated area after use. • Make sure you use the park brake and have fully lowered the forks. • Never leave a running engine unattended.