Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to using the equipment, carry out a pre-shift check. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out every day or every shift. Every different machinery as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look beneath the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation compared to a regular vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be performed with utmost caution. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the floor when traveling. Utilize caution when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is very bulky that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Before loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machine is prone to tip-overs on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be firmly in control at all times. The primary cause of operator injuries is tip-over. 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.