Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift inspection prior to utilizing the equipment. or OSHA guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be done at the start of every work shift. Each different equipment and its attachments has its own checklist listing steering, brakes, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. Primarily make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the equipment after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 The basic operation of a vehicle is basically compared to a standard vehicle. The lift truck has a rear end swing of the forklift happens as the truck steers utilizing its rear wheels. Disregarding this information is a main cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with great caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the floor when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Check the wheels on trailers/trucks prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on slopes, particularly when carrying a load. The machine could tip over on an incline. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely 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 the event of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.