A forklift is a type of PIT, or Powered Industrial Truck, which is designed to move and deposit a load of materials. There are many sizes and types of forklifts, often designed for specific jobs and powered by diverse sources – batteries, diesel fuel, gasoline, even propane. They are used at a wide variety of worksites and have characteristics unique to their application; for this and other reasons, forklift operators must be both trained and certified. Even with such training there are thousands of forklift accidents each year, resulting in significant amounts of property damage, injury, and even death.
Forklift training generally consists of three parts, the first of which is the formal transmittal of information, whether by personal or online lecture, video or DVD lessons & demos, or written text. Trainings for forklift operators must conform to OSHA guidelines and OSHA training requirements.
When this training is complete the would-be operator is ready for actual application - practice – of what he or she has learned, usually on the type of forklift he will be operating. Periodically after that, the operator’s workplace performance will be evaluated. There should be refresher training if the operator has or nearly has an accident, also if he is assigned to operate a new kind of forklift or if the worksite location or conditions change significantly.
OSHA requires all forklift operators to be at least 18. Every forklift operator should follow these basic precautions in order to minimize exposure to risk:
· Inspect the forklift before using it. Check horn, lights, brakes, and backup alarm. Check the fire extinguisher and check for hydraulic fluid leaks.
· Check the load you are about to transport. Secure any loose items. Be sure pallets are not broken or damaged in any way.
· Use protective gear. If there is a seatbelt, OSHA requires that it be worn. Hard hat and/or safety glasses may be appropriate at your work site.
· Do not overload the forklift. Keep the load low enough so that you can see over it.
· Work with a spotter. He can assist when you do not have a clear view or when people or materials are in your path. Do not allow anyone to ride on the load or on the forks, and do not allow anyone to walk under the forks when they are raised.
· Do not allow distractions such as smoking, eating, drinking, or cellphone use while operating the forklift. Do not operate forklift when taking any medications that could alter your response abilities.
· When finished, turn off the engine and use the parking brake. Park in a safe, out-of-the-traffic location. Report ALL incidents and accidents, as per OSHA Regulations.Forklifts operators work inside, outside, in the rain, on hills and other grades, on smooth surfaces and on slick surfaces. They lift and deposit every possible cargo and expedite material handling on land and at sea. They operate forklifts built to accommodate a variety of specialized functions; and construction sites, warehouses, and many other locations depend on them. Paying attention to basic safety standards is the law, as well as an
absolute necessity. And remember--forklift safety is depending
on everyone.
