Forklift Operation Dos and Don’ts

The safety legislation surrounding forklift use in all commercial environments is – rightfully – long and detailed, and the regulations that govern safe operation are designed to ensure that accidents and faults are kept to an absolute minimum.

All forklift operators should be fully informed of their responsibilities when it comes to using the vehicles, so here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind…

Before Operation:

Do

• Ensure that all those planning to operate forklift machinery have been fully trained a basic first step. Only properly certified persons should use forklifts. To this extent, the vehicle’s operation manual should be kept inside the forklift at all times for easy reference.

• Plan the route that the forklift will take once in motion. Not only will this allow you to identify any hazards in its path, it will also give co-workers forewarning about where the vehicle is heading.

Don’t

• Use any equipment that does not meet safe operational standards. An inspection checklist should be made available to allow operators to determine the condition of all forklift equipment, and any that isn’t up to code should be immediately decommissioned.

• Overload the lifting elements. Every forklift has a maximum load capacity (that should be clearly marked on the equipment), and the size and weight of the load you intend to carry should be determined and checked before operation. It’s vital that all loads are secure and stable before moving.

During Operation:

Do

• Wear a seat belt. This might sound like an obvious one, but operating a forklift can be a bumpy ride, and a driver could easily suffer injury if not strapped in.

• Check that the mast is slightly reclined. Tilting the mast back helps to properly balance the vehicle while in motion, particularly when heavier loads are being carried.

• Drive in reverse if normal vision is obscured. When loads are very tall, your view may be blocked, and driving backwards or reducing the load may be your only option. It is essential that the vehicle has some form of automated reversing alarm fitted, and that all nearby persons are aware that you are driving backwards.

Don’t

• Travel at more than 2 mph when inside, and 15 mph when outside. Not only can forklifts become unstable when travelling at quicker speeds, but cornering can become highly dangerous. Any people in the near vicinity will also have a better chance to get out the way should you fail to spot them.

• Do not drive the forklift while the load is elevated in any way. This could cause instability – especially if it is not properly secured.

• Never leave the forklift unattended, or allow anyone without correct training to operate it. Even if just for a short length of time, an inexperienced forklift driver could cause a serious accident.

• Never attempt cornering while the front and back wheels are at different heights. Trying to turn whilst driving the forklift on a ramp could be disastrous, as the weighting of the vehicle could cause it to topple over.

East Midlands Forklifts are one of the leading suppliers of forklifts in the region, stocking an extensive range of vehicles from premier manufacturers for sale or hire. Our experienced team are also on hand to carry out repairs and maintenance on all vehicles, all at highly competitive rates.

Get in touch today for more information.