Operating a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift check before using the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be performed at the start of each work shift. Every different machine along with its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, brakes, steering, controls, horn and safety features.
2 When starting up the equipment and check the controls, it is important to make sure that the seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat has been adjusted for your maximum comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of every kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation as opposed to a regular vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs due to the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Disregarding this fact is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels must be made with great caution. These top-heavy machinery 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 floor when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Only drive backwards if the load is so big that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to loading and unloading. Do not travel on slopes, specially when lifting a load. The machine can tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be firmly in control all the time. The primary reason for operator injuries is tip-over. The operator must 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.