Be Alert When Operating a Forklift Truck
A forklift is a huge piece of machinery and hence safety measures should be taken when utilizing these kinds of hese types of trucks. Operators of forklifts are required by law to be trained and certified to drive the machine. Anyone who misuses a forklift truck could be charged with an offence. Misuse of this potentially dangerous equipment could cause serious injury or death. Safe use of a lift truck truck involves paying full attention both to what is happening inside the vehicle and to what is happening around the vehicle. Not unlike driving a car, operating a lift truck requires keeping your attention on the road and being alert of other vehicles and pedestrians.
Important forklift driving tips
Mishaps at the worksite are far too common. On the other hand, many accidents are avoidable by minimalizing the chances while working with heavy and dangerous equipment.
The majority of operating surfaces are somewhat uneven and rough are commonly encountered while operating a lift truck. The largest hazards are dock platforms, dock bridges, pot holes, bumps, ramps and inclines. Forklifts are designed to handle uneven surfaces, but it is the operators responsibility to keep control of the truck and to be on the lookout for these hazards.
Visibility is one of the important factors in forklift mishaps. The operator is responsible for ensuring clear visibility when using a forklift by inspecting that mirrors are positioned properly and that all windows are clean and unobstructed. If a load is placed in such a way that it obstructs visibility for the forklift driver, then the driver has to put the forklift in reverse and carefully back down the ramp.
Operators are required by law to ensure that daily inspections are made to the forklift and its components. On a weekly basis, more methodical exams must also be done. The engine, brakes, forks, tires and the rest must always be tested in order to ensure that they are properly working. Proper testing could help to avoid accidents and injury.