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Forklift operator handling goods in warehouse

Safety Rules that form a part of Forklift Training

Wherever loading and unloading of goods take place, there is a high possibility of on-site accidents due to system failure or negligence. While operating a forklift, system failure can be checked by pre and post-operational inspection. However, there are some mandatory safety rules that operators must follow in order to ensure a safer industry. These rules are taught at length in CN Lift Safety’s Forklift Training in Mississauga.

Different rules apply during various forklift operations. Such as:

Mounting/Dismounting

There are chances of slips, falls, and trips. The Head has to be saved from hitting the overhead cage. Slipping from steps is also a possible risk factor.

Hands should be dry and clean to avoid slipping on handhold. The shoe sole should be grease-free to avoid slips and trips. Avoid jumping while mounting and dismounting the truck. Pulling and lowering of the body should be a controlled motion. Make sure your footwear sole is not worn out flat. It should have ridges for friction.

Starting/Stopping of forklift

A pre-operational inspection is mandatory before you start your forklift. CN Lift Safety’s forklift pre-operational checklist comes in handy.

Before you start, make sure you get a clear way. Watch out for any blind spots as anything or anyone can emerge from there.

While stopping, avoid hard braking. It should be done gently and slowly. Put the gear in neutral and engage parking brakes. Kill the engine afterward. Don’t park in an unauthorized area, in the way of an aisle or exit. Wheel blocking is necessary if you’ve parked on an incline.

Speed Check

A forklift must be operated at a permitted speed and not over it. If the surface is wet or slippery, just slow down. Sound horn at turns and in areas that allow less visibility to warn an oncoming vehicle. Swift turns should be avoided. Especially the snow-clad roads in Toronto can be very tricky and maneuvering on such paths is an important part of forklift training.

Turning, Changing directions and Reversing

Bring the truck to a halt before changing directions. Don’t forget that pedestrians have a right of the way. Allow them to pass and sound the horn at each turn. Turning on wet and slippery surfaces after a snowfall as in Toronto is riskier than other days and forms an important element of the forklift training curriculum. 

Reversing is a tricky part owing to reduced visibility and many blind spots. The reverse alarm should be working. Use rearview mirrors, spotters, etc to increase visibility. Turn slowly. Rear-end swing should be kept in mind before turning. Turn close to the inner circumference of the corner. Make sure forks are not elevated while turning. 

Driving on inclined surfaces

With load upgrade, drive forward when going up a ramp and in reverse while moving down a ramp. Never drive over an inclination with load downgrade.

Parking

Park with neutral controls, engaged parking brake and block wheels (if parked on an inclined surface). A hard-level surface is preferred for parking. Don’t block an aisle or exit. Don’t park in unauthorized areas. The lifting mechanism should be lowered completely.

Above is just a brief introduction to key safety rules. To safeguard industry and minimize workplace accidents, it is a must that operators are certified and completely trained. With proper forklift training, it’s possible to reduce the risks involved in operating a lift truck. Get to Know the Benefits Of Using Vertical Mast Lift with all safety measures.