How to Work a Forklift

A forklift or forklift truck is used to lift and carry heavy loads, usually in an industrial setting. Forklift jobs are classified as materials handling. Typically forklifts are used to move items in a factory or warehouse, and to load and unload trucks. A large retail operation may hire a forklift operator to move stock. Forklift training concentrates on safety more than how to work a forklift. It's simple enough to operate a forklift, but it takes a concerted effort to do it safely.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Inspect the forklift for leaks in hoses, loose caging around the cab and cracks in the metal forks and frame. Check the unit from all sides before operating.

2. Mount the unit and strap in. Buckle the seatbelt or safety harness. The operator stands on a deck at the rear of some models, while others have a seat in a cab.

3. Start the vehicle. Most gas powered lift trucks start with a key. Electric models start when you step on the accelerator.

4. Operate a gas model by depressing the clutch and shifting into a gear. Then gently let off the clutch while depressing the accelerator. The gear choices are usually limited to "slow," "fast," and "reverse."

5. Operate an electric model by simply stepping on one of the accelerators. There's a separate accelerator for reverse. The electric motor starts as soon as the accelerator is depressed. Electric models don't have a break, they stop when you take you lift your foot off the accelerator.

6. Watch the rear when steering. A forklift steers from the rear wheels for maneuverability. The back end swings out wide and quickly. This differs substantially from driving a car and takes time for operators to get used to.

7. Lift and lower the forks with a lever. Generally pushing the lever forward lowers the forks and pulling back lifts them.

8. Tilt the forks for lifting, carrying and unloading. Push the tilt lever forward to move the mast forward to get the forks under a load for lifting or releasing a load. Pull back on the lever to tilt the forks upward and lean a load against the frame for safe carrying.

9. Separate the forks properly to fit under the load to be carried. Some models have a lever to control fork separation. Most have to be moved apart manually.

10. Lift a load by lowering the forks a few inches from the floor. Use the tilt lever to tilt the forks downward. Drive slowly forward to get the forks in under the pallet. If the forks rub against the pallet before they are completely under it, lower the forks the rest of the way to the floor. That sets the forks level and as low as possible. Drive forward until the pallet meets the backstop at the end of the forks.

11. Tilt the mast upright, perpendicular to the floor. Lift the load straight up with the lift lever. Lift the load about a foot from the floor for safe carrying.

12. Tilt the load back against the frame. Check the load for balance before driving with it. Drive carefully and turn slowly while carrying a load. Watch for people and other forklift operators as you drive.

13. Drop the load by lowering the forks to within a few inches of the floor and tilting the mast forward until the front end of the pallet touches the ground. Slowly drive backward. Lower the forks all the way as you're backing up, so the load eases off the forks.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice driving and maneuvering a forklift in a wide open unoccupied space before using it among workers. Companies that employ forklift operators usually offer training in forklift safety. Forklift manufacturers and dealers offer specific training instructions for each model. Some governments and organizations require licensing or certification for forklift operators.
• Follow all forklift safety guidelines while operating or working near a forklift. Never operate a forklift if you're alone. Never use a forklift under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medications. Never lift a human with the forks. Never play with industrial equipment.