Forklifts use a combination of hydraulics, a pulley system, and other things to lift heavy materials across different distances. They are commonly used in warehouses, construction sites, and other places that need to transport lots of heavy materials. We know where it’s used, but how does a forklift work? To answer that, we put together this guide to break down what a forklift is used for, its different parts, and how it works.
Safe Work Practices When Traveling With A Forklift
Precautions and best practices while traveling in a forklift include:
- The most basic rule for traveling is that you maintain control of your forklift at all times.
- Operate a forklift only while in the seat or operator’s station.
- Never start it or operate the controls while standing beside the forklift.
- Never allow passengers unless the forklift was designed for a passenger.
- Do not put any part of your body between the uprights of the mast or when traveling, outside of the forklift frame.
- Never drive with wet or greasy hands. If necessary, keep a towel or rag handy at all times.
- Whether loaded or empty, carry forks and platforms on lift trucks as low as possible. This lowers the center of gravity and reduces the possibility of overturning the truck or dumping the load.
- Always look in the direction of travel and keep a clear view of the travel path. Travel in reverse if the load blocks your view.
- Always observe posted speed limits (usually 5 mph) at your workplace. A forklift should not be driven faster than a quick walking pace.
- Keep a distance of at least three forklift lengths between you and any forklift traveling in front of you.
- Do not pass a forklift traveling in the same direction if it is at a blind spot, intersection or other dangerous location.
- Never drive a forklift up to anyone in front of a bench or other fixed object.
- Never allow anyone to walk or stand under the elevated forks—even if the forks are not carrying a load.
- Check that there is adequate clearance under beams, lights, sprinklers, and pipes for the forklift and load to pass.
- Never engage in stunt driving or horseplay.
Also Read: Forklift Hazards and Control Measures
Hi! After reading this article, I believe the right thing to do after this is to send it to my nephew so he can finish his work according to the command later on. He’s quite reluctant to tell me more about his upcoming six-month contract as a forklift driver at a nearby warehouse this summer. I just love it when you suggested that we should be at least slower than a walker when operating such a vehicle.
The blog is quite informative. Thank you for sharing the insight..! Forklift safety training is most important in the workplace. It can minimize accidents and fatalities on the job while also reducing financial losses. The forklift speed limiter , designed by Sharpeagle Technologies provides an alarm feature control speed limit between 6 km – 30 km. This feature gives a warning alarm to the driver and controls the speed of the forklift up to the safe speed limit preventing driving accidents.