Using a Regular Counterbalance forklift
1 Before using the equipment, perform a pre-shift check. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be performed each day or every shift. Every different machinery along with its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls 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 underneath the machinery after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every type of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a standard motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift happens because of the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a major reasons for injuries and accidents to workers. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done with great care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or moving a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the floor and utilize care when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks prior to loading and unloading. Do not travel on slopes, particularly when lifting a load. The equipment can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely in control at all times. The main 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 method is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.