Operating a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to utilizing the machinery, perform a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out every day or every shift. Each different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. Primarily ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation as opposed to a standard vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs because of the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this information is a major cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with great caution. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the floor when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is so bulky that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks before unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, particularly when lifting a load. The equipment is prone to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be definitely in control all the time. The primary cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The driver should never try to jump out of the truck in case 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.