Because of the detailed information in yesterday’s article, we continue with Part II. Please read these valuable instructions regarding forklift safety, submitted by Andrea Bernie.
Loading
Every forklift comes with a data plate fixed in place as handy reference for important information such as load limits. When loading a forklift:
Never exceed manufacturer’s recommended load limit
Keep the vehicle’s mast in an upright position before inserting it into a pallet
Make sure the fork is level before inserting it into a pallet
Position the load according to manufacturer recommendation
Never add a counterweight
For the most stable hauling, keep the load as close to the front wheels as possible
Raising the Load
The forklift truck is least stable when its raising the load. The higher the load, the more unstable the machine. For optimum safety:
Never raise or lower the fork on a moving vehicle
Always come to a complete stop, with brake engages, before raising the load or lowering it
For driver safety, never lift a load that will extend higher than the fork’s backrest
Check for adequate overhead clearance before lifting the load
Be mindful of obstructions or other loads along the travel path
Avoid overheat power lines at all times
For traveling stability, life the load first up, then tilted back slightly before moving it
Make sure forks are free before traveling in reverse
Never abandon a loaded forklift, especially if the load is in a raised position
Keep people off the lift, whether loaded or unloaded
Keep people out from under the lift, whether it’s loaded or unloaded
Handling Pallets
Pallets and forklifts work together like locks and keys but it’s not a fool-proof union. Caution in handling pallets is required for speed, efficiency, and to minimize the risk of accidents.
Adjust forks to fit pallets before inserting them
Make sure the load is balanced and stable before beginning the lift
Make sure the forks are completely under the pallet before beginning the lift
Never adjust the load, the forklift or truck, or the surrounding area once the fork is loaded
Never transfer a palleted load from one raised forklift to another
Loading or Unloading Straight Trucks, Tractor Trailers, Railway Cars
Tightly packed cargo, cramped spaces, and uneven or unsteady work surfaces make loading or unloading straight trucks, tractor trailers, railway cars, and other moveable cargo carriers exceptionally risky business. This is never the work of a rookie, never a training ground. Only highly skilled, well-trained forklift operators should attempt work in these environments.
Prepare the vehicle before loading or unloading begins. Be sure to:
Post warning signs on all sides of the work area
Verify the floor of the vehicle is strong enough to support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its operator
Verify the dockplate or on / off ramp is securely fixed in place and can support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its operator
Firmly set all the vehicle’s brakes
Chock all wheels with a wedge or block
If the trailer is uncoupled, in a stand-alone setting, secure it with fixed jacks for added stability
Ensure proper lighting
Make sure points of ingress / egress are clear of obstruction and clearly marked inside and outside the vessel
Inspect the work area and clear away all debris, clutter, or obstructions and clean up any spills or wet spots that could trigger an accident
Install non-slip material to floors that suggest potential risk
Make sure the cargo storage zone is clear of obstruction, with all edges clearly marked
Mark load and cargo storage areas with reflective tape if working at night or in dimly lit environments
Do not work in a cargo container with holes in the floor
During the loading or unloading process:
Stay as far away from all edges of docks, ramps, or elevated doorways as possible
Never try to move the vessel with the forklift
Work only in well-ventilated work zones
Keep dockplate and ramps clean and clear of clutter at all times
Work slowly and carefully for maximum safety
Never spin the lift truck’s wheels
Special measures are necessary for working safely around railway cars:
Always cross the track on a diagonal
Make sure hand brakes, derailer, and wheel blocks are in place before entering the car
Open railway car doors properly, never with the forks of the lift truck
Park forklift at least ten feet away from track when not in use
Entering An Elevator with a Forklift Truck
Freight elevators can save a lot of time and travel bus command special respect when loading and unloading heavy machinery from them. Always obtain proper authorization before entering an elevator with a forklift truck and use them safely:
Before entry, verify the elevator can support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its operator
Work slowly and cautiously
Allow ample room for elevator doors to open
Enter the elevator squarely, never at an angle
Once inside, neutralize all controls
Turn the forklift’s engine off
Set all forklift truck brakes
Parking
Even parked forklifts are dangerous if they’re not properly exited. For forklift truck safety round the clock, please:
Park in designated parking areas only
Before leaving the truck, be sure to:
Firmly set all brakes
Lower forks and/or load to the ground
Turn all controls to neutral or off settings
Turn off the motor
Disconnect battery cables
Follow safety procedures to shut off propane fuel supply
Technological advances and government regulations make working with forklifts safer to operate with each new design or each new labor law but, ultimately, forklift truck safety depends on the operator. Respect is required at all times — respect for the machine, respect for the work, respect for the workplace, and respect of the operator and all coworkers in the work zone.
Author Bio: Joana Kylee is an authorized dealer of superior quality forklift forks, forklift seats and all types forklift spare parts for major brands of lift trucks with same day shipping.
Comments