Copyright Progressive Business Publications Forklift Safety
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Injuries Caused by Forklifts Usually caused by: –Operator unaware of surroundings –Don’t know what to do when in danger Amount to 100 deaths per year Over 36,000 serious injuries per year Twenty-five per cent of accidents caused by inadequate training
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Forklift Inspection Three-part checklist Structure: cage, overhead guard, forks, tires, leaks Mechanisms: battery, horns, warning lights, brakes, seat brake, clutch, gauges Control: forward and reverse steering, hydraulic levers
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Differences: Forklifts and Cars Compared to cars, forklifts: Are heavier Are less stable Are steered by back wheels Have a three-point suspension system Use different controls Must be used at lower speeds
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Be Aware of Surroundings Ground conditions Ramps and inclines Pedestrians and coworkers Narrow aisles and doorways
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Loading a Forklift Before loading, check: Pallet is undamaged Load has been secured Area is clear of people and debris Your total load capacity is equal to or greater than the load weight Not to exceed load center balance
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Picking Up a Load When picking up a load remember to: Center forks on load Approach slowly and stop 12” from load Place forks completely under load Lift forks until load is engaged Tilt mast back Slowly reverse away from stacks Lower the forks for travel
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Traveling With a Load Tilt load backward Lower the load to 6 inches above ground Proceed slowly, 3 lengths behind others Sound horn when vision is obstructed Pedestrians and other vehicles have right of way
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Load Stability Forklift stability –Fulcrum point –Counterweight –Load center –Center of gravity –Stability triangle Longitudinal Lateral Dynamic
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Visibility Beware of loads that block line of sight Drive in reverse if load blocks front view Face the direction you travel Know edges of platforms and docks
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Unloading and Stacking Tips for unloading: – Lower load to floor or stack – Tilt mast forward to level load – Slowly and smoothly back away Tips for stacking: – Straight, centered and in a square – Stagger top tier – Don’t dislodge other pallets in stack
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Lifting Others with Forks Not recommended, but if necessary: Use firmly secured safety platform with guardrail Lifted worker should be able to shut off power Protection from falling objects Operator must tend to forklift Guard in place between worker and mast
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Battery and Fueling If forklift uses a battery: –Must be charged in designated area –Charging device must be protected from damage –Keep metal tools away from uncovered battery If uses fuel: –Check tank for damages and dents –Avoid spillage –Have adequate ventilation
Copyright Progressive Business Publications In Case of a Tip Over Seat belt should always be securely attached Stay in cabin, don’t try to jump out Keep a tight grip on steering wheel Keep feet braced against floor Lean forward and away from tip over
Copyright Progressive Business Publications Summary Inspect forklift thoroughly and consistently Environment affects operation Carry load tilted backwards and low to ground Face direction of travel going no faster than 5 mph Use warning lights and horns Never exceed maximum load capacity With load: drive up and reverse down inclines If you’re about to tip over, follow correct procedures