Using a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Before operating the machinery, perform a pre-shift inspection. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be performed every day or each shift. Each and every different machine as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing lights, emergency brakes, steering, brakes, controls, horn and safety features.
2 Start up the machinery and check controls. First ensure your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under 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 as opposed to a standard motor vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift happens due to the fact that the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a major cause of injuries and accidents to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be performed with utmost caution. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the ground when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it interferes with the vision of the operator.
5 Before unloading and loading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machinery could tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator must be firmly in control at all times. The primary cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.