Forklifts are motorized industrial trucks capable of lifting heavy loads. They’re utilized for short-distance lifting and moving of a variety of goods. A basic forklift consists of a small frame with a front-facing mast assembly to raise and lower the transported weight.
The forklift’s signature prongs that bear the load are affixed to these mast assemblies, which hold the carriages in place at different heights.
Forklift training schools train employers and operators to ensure forklift safety. A forklift safety checklist is a vital document that establishes rules to ensure safety.
Here are some forklift safety checklist rules:
1. Pre-use Inspection
A daily inspection of the forklift is required, and the operator typically carries out this inspection and completes a checklist before they begin their shift. A forklift defect can cause or contribute to an accident even if the operator is careful.
2. Condition of Surface
Forklifts might have significant safety issues if they’re operating on the wrong surface. You may lose control of your forklift, come to a quick stop, or dump your load if loose objects, bumps, or depressions are in the road. A forklift’s stability can be jeopardized if a wheel sinks into a soft dirt surface.
3. Driving
If the forklift, trailer, or truck is not chocked or fastened to the dock, it will begin to move. In this case, a piece of dock board can fall between the forklift’s path and the trailer.
Vehicle restraint systems mounted on docks can be used to secure a trailer as it backs into place by attaching them to the trailer’s lower bar. When the restraint is activated or a malfunction, this system will notify the driver.
4. Loading and Unloading Operation
With a forklift, you can transport materials from one location to another. Before you lift the weight, make sure it’s safe. Check whether it s it sturdy enough to withstand the stresses of transport. Assemble it as required.
Check whether your forklift’s capacity allows you to raise and extend the load to its maximum height and weight capacity. If not, is it possible to divide the burden down into smaller pieces? ‘
5. Unattended Forklift
Forklifts are considered unattended if the operator cannot see them or is at least 25 feet away from them. Lower the forks to the ground whenever you leave a forklift unattended. Set the brakes, neutralize the controls, and turn off the power.
Block the forklift’s wheels if it is on an incline. As long as you stay within 25 feet of the forklift when dismounting, you must drop the prongs to the ground, engage in neutral driving mode on the controls, and apply the brakes.
6. Lifting People
Never allow somebody to be raised while on the forks or a pallet lifted by the forks. Use a platform or structure created particularly for this purpose if you plan on using a forklift to move an employee to a higher position.
7. Fueling Forklifts
Follow these safety measures while recharging or recharging batteries. The refueling/charging area should be free of open fires or anything that generates sparks or arcs. If fumes are a problem, ensure enough ventilation to get rid of them. Fire extinguishers should be readily available in case of an emergency.
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