We have discussed many uses of Forklifts. From what you need to know, to how Forklift safety is vital, ensuring minimal risk of injury or destruction.
Once you complete your Forklift course and learn how to operate a Forklift Truck (FLT), or maybe you’re preparing for your training, there are certain things you should and shouldn’t do. These are not unwritten rules, but requirements expected from a Forklift operator to emphasise safe practices in the workplace.
Being able to consistently relay these Do’s and Don’ts will maintain standards within your workplace, while also negating improper FLT use from others.
So, let’s get started.
Forklift Don’ts
Ignore weight capacity
Many Forklifts have a maximum weight capacity it can raise, shown in Kilograms (KG). If the height and load centre is exceeded, this could result in tip over, load dropping or damaging the Forklift and injuring yourself or a pedestrian altogether.
Weight capacity must not, under any circumstances, be ignored.
If you are unsure of the weight capacity of the FLT you are using, refer to the rated capacity plate. This will give you the specifications and keep you from exceeding limits.
Weight distribution can also further impact the FLT. If the weight is heavier on one end of the cargo, this can cause an imbalance and tip the Forklift.
Misuse the Forklift
A forklift is a powerful piece of equipment. Which is why training for the FLT is essential to enhance safety, remain compliant and implement proper practical use.
Training also ensures that you understand the ramifications of not using a Forklift properly.
Accidents can happen from poor forklift use, which is why you must not exceed weight limits, drive faster than intended, nor have more than one operator on the truck. The Operator would be at fault if caught misusing the FLT, which doesn’t even consider if anything was to happen, such as a crash, damage to the FLT, environment, or worse, causing injury to yourself or others & potential disciplinary or dismissal from your job.
Leave Forklifts Unattended
Never leave an active FLT unattended. This is because of the chance that inexperienced or untrained staff may attempt to operate it. Either because they are provided the opportunity to use the Forklift (when they know they shouldn’t) or a member of staff needs an operator to grab cargo from a hard-to-reach place, but there is no one around who is certified.
You should also not leave the Forklift running while unattended at any time. From needing a toilet break, to quickly helping someone else. Move the Forklift to where it is stored, turn off the truck and maintain best practices.
Never use an FLT you have not been familiarised on.
Forklift Do’s
Wear PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an absolute necessity before considering to operate a Forklift.
PPE is used to make you visible to others, as well as protect parts of your body which could be injured if an incident happens.
PPE will include
- Steel Toe Cap Boots
- Hi Viz
- Hard Hat
You will also be expected to wear appropriate clothing when in a practical working environment. This means no shorts or open cuff shirts should be worn. Essentially, anything which could be caught or snagged on your persons.
You should also ensure that long hair is tied properly, and any piercings are removed or covered. This is because the risk of getting caught on the machine or cargo is increased. Better be safe than sorry!
Watch out for pedestrians
There is a chance that if you are going to be using any type of Forklift, it will be in an area where other individuals will either be working, or observing.
Although workers will be wearing PPE, there is a chance that there could be others walking through for a variety of reasons. Whether it be in a warehouse, or outside on a forecourt, there will be people working, or moving in practical environments.
So, you must be aware of your surroundings and anticipate that a pedestrian could come out of nowhere.
It is no different to driving a car (or riding a bike if you don’t have a driving licence!) you need to be cautious and observant of your surroundings, in case someone does step out in front of you.
Being that one step ahead, and staying vigilant will aid in the safety of pedestrians.
Complete inspection checks before use
Pre-use operational checks are conducted before use of the truck. This is in place to make sure that there are no defects or issues before operating the truck.
In the event that there is a defect, you must notify your superior of this and ensure that the FLT is not used by anyone else. Then, all staff must be aware that this truck must be repaired before use. Whether this be on the day if the fix is immediate, or completing the necessary procedures within your workplace.
By doing this, you are potentially saving costs in damages, as well as preventing incidents and injuries.
Are You Ready To Test Your Skills?
Now that you have understood what the do’s and don’ts of Forklift operating is, the time is now to book your Forklift operator training.
We offer Counterbalance, Reach, Bendi, Powered Pallet and Moffett courses for different experience types.
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