Forklifts are one type of powered industrial truck. Others include platform lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, tractors, and other trucks that are powered by an electric motor or internal bustion engine. Improper handling or misuse of forklifts often causes injuries.
OSHA requires operators to be trained. Before operating a forklift, you should understand the basic operating and loading rules, basic rules for safe travel, truck-related and workplace-related information, and how to perform a safety check.
Basic Operating and Loading Rules
Accidents can be avoided if basic powered industrial truck operating and loading rules are followed. Some of these rules are:
- Do not allow anyone to stand or pass under raised forks, whether loaded or empty.
- Only stable or safely arranged loads can be handled.
- Only loads that are within the truck’s rated capacity can be handled. (When you are using an
attachment to handle a load, keep the load within the attachment’s rated capacity.)
- When lifting a load, place the forks (or other load engaging means) under the load as far as possible. Then, carefully tilt the mast backwards slightly to stabilize the load.
- Never tilt the load forward unless you are depositing it.
- Trucks need to have an overhead guard to protect the operator from the impact of falling packages, boxes, etc. (the guard does not need to withstand the impact of a falling capacity load). A backrest extension is needed when the load could fall rearward.
- Only safety platforms can be used to lift people.
- If the forklift needs to be used in a hazardous (classified) location, it must be approved for the hazard.
- When you get off of the forklift temporarily, and remain within 25 feet of it (and the forklift remains in your view), lower the forks, put the controls in neutral, and set the brakes. Block the wheels if the truck is on an incline. If you will be leaving the forklift 25 or more feet away (or anytime it will be out of your view), shut it off.
- When you park the forklift, make sure access to fire aisles, stairways, and fire equipment is kept clear.
Basic Rules for Safe Travel
Most accidents happen while the truck is traveling. Follow these rules to travel safely:
- Watch where you are going. Drive in reverse with the load trailing if the load obstructs your view. Keep a clear view of your path, and look in the direction you are traveling.
- Never drive up to anyone standing in front of a bench or other fixed object.
- Allow no riders. (If riders are authorized, the truck must provide them with a safe place to ride.)
This information is provided by: Assurance Agency http://www.assuranceagency.com
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