Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Carry out a pre-shift check prior to operating the machine. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist must be performed at the beginning of each work shift. Each different machine as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing emergency brakes, lights, brakes, steering, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any signs of leaks. The operation of each kind of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a regular vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift occurs due to the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this detail is a major cause of accidents and injuries to employees. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done with utmost caution. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When lifting or transporting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 When traveling, keep the forks close to the ground and utilize care when approaching loads. Make certain that the forks line up with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is needed, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Drive backwards only if the load is so big that it interferes with driver vision.
5 Before loading and unloading, check the wheels on trailers/trucks. When carrying a load, it is not advised to travel on slopes. The machinery could tip over on a slope. When driving on a slope is unavoidable, always drive up the incline and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The driver should be definitely 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 case of a tip-over. The safest approach is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.