How to Use a Sit Down Forklift
A forklift is a powered industrial truck used to transport loads in factories, plants and construction sites. The sit-down models have solid rubber tires designed for smooth surfaces and so are typically used in warehouse settings. Operating a forklift is similar to driving a car but several differences have made it so that OSHA requires drivers to complete a certification exam and demonstrate their driving abilities before being authorized to operate the machinery. During your training you can practice and improve your skills by following these simple steps about how to use a forklift.
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Instructions
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Read the operations manual for the model forklift your company uses. Since most training is provided at the job site, you will have access to the manual for the forklift you will be learning on. Make note of the safety procedures and any specific technical aspects of your machine.
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Find out the load specifics for the model forklift you are driving and the load you need to move. For instance, if your forklift is designed to lift a load of 5,000 pounds with a 24-inch load center, do not try to lift a longer load or the lift will tip forward. The load center is determined by dividing the length of the load in half. So if you have a machine with a 24-inch center maximum, you should not try to carry a load longer than four feet.
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Sit down in the forklift seat and secure the seat belt. Apply pressure to the brake with your foot and set the direction selector lever to "neutral." Turn the ignition to "on" and wait for the engine to start. With your foot still on the brake, check around the machine for visibility and then engage the forklift gear. The lift is now ready to move.
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Drive the forklift to your load and then carefully pick it up with the forklift. The controls on every model machine may be different but in general, to pick up a load you must lower the lift prongs and tilt the mast forward. Slowly drive the forklift forward so that the prongs slide underneath the pallet and then tilt the mast to the upright position and lift the loading prongs.
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Tilt the mast backward before you begin to move the load to help stabilize it and keep the load as close to the ground as possible. Never lift it higher than necessary, as you sacrifice control of the machine.
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Move the load to the drop-off site at a reasonable speed and use your horn at all intersections, giving pedestrians the right-of-way. If you cannot see over your load, you must drive backwards with one hand on the wheel and one hand on the upright brace. To go up an incline, you have to drive forward and use a spotter. Driving backward up an incline will cause the load to spill and the lift to tilt or fall.
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Drop off your load at the site by tilting the mast to the straight upright position and lowering the lift prongs. At the low setting, tilt the mast forward so that the load touches the ground and slowly back the lift up to remove the prongs from underneath the load.
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Tips & Warnings
Always drive the length of three forklifts or more behind another machine or pedestrian to maximize safety.
Most forklift models have a wide rear end swing when turning so keep a safe distance from the edges of docks and ramps.
Always slow down when making a turn to prevent tipping and try to never turn on any kind of incline to avoid tipping.
Never allow another person to ride on the forklift that is not equipped with an additional seat to carry him; uneven weight distribution or accidents could cause damage to the machine or serious injury.
Do not lift a person without the properly attached lifting platform.
Do not attempt to drive or operate a forklift without first attending an operations class or training session.
References
- Photo Credit forklift image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com
