Using a Standard Counterbalance lift truck
1 Perform a pre-shift inspection prior to operating the equipment. Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines state that a pre-shift checklist should be done at the beginning of each work shift. Each and every different machinery and its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, emergency brakes, lights, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the equipment and check controls. First make sure that your seatbelt is fastened and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look underneath the machinery after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each type of lift truck is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of lift truck operation compared to a standard vehicle. The rear end swing of the forklift happens because of the fact that the truck steers with its rear wheels. Forgetting this fact is a major cause of accidents and injuries to workers. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be made with great care. These top-heavy machines have a high center of gravity even without a load. When transporting or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the floor when traveling. Use caution when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up correctly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is required, tilting it back to help stabilize the machine. Drive backwards only if the load is very bulky that it obstructs 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 equipment is susceptible to tip-overs on a slope. When driving on a slope is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load should be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The forklift driver should always be in firm control at all times. Tipping over is the primary reason for operator injuries. The operator must 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 gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.