Using a Standard Counterbalance forklift
1 Before operating the equipment, perform a pre-shift inspection. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists have to be carried out every day or each shift. Every different machine together with its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. Primarily make sure that your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is firmly in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look beneath the equipment after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of every type of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a standard vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs due to the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a main cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The nearly 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done with utmost care. These top-heavy equipment have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks close to the ground when traveling. Utilize caution when approaching loads. Be certain the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load only as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Only drive backwards if the load is very big that it obstructs the vision of the operator.
5 Prior to loading and unloading, check the wheels on trucks/trailers. When lifting a load, it is not advised to travel on inclines. The machinery is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on an incline is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator should be firmly in control at all times. The main cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The operator should never try to jump out of the truck in the event of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while holding the steering wheel and bracing your feet.