Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Prior to operating the equipment, perform a pre-shift check. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out each day or every shift. Each different machine as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, steering, brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 When starting up the machinery and check the controls, it is essential to make certain that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look underneath the equipment after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a regular 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 cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 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 lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the ground when traveling. Utilize care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the equipment. Only drive backwards if the load is very big that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers before loading and unloading. Do not travel on inclines, particularly when carrying a load. The equipment is prone to tip-overs on a slope. 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 operator should be firmly in control all the time. The main reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.