FORK LIFT TRUCK OPERATORS

FORK LIFT TRUCK OPERATORS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Fort lift trucks are only operated by authorized persons accidents and incidents occur when unauthorized persons gain access or operators are not familiar with the machine type or the accessories that can be attached to the machine

HAZARDS

• Operative training
• Environment
• Ground conditions
• Material handling packaging

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• Only persons over the age of 19 years old with a valid driving licence and in possession of a certificate of competence and authorization are permitted to operate these machines
• See that your machine is serviceable and properly maintained at all times, in particular the brakes steering and tyre pressures. Check water ballasting where necessary
• Ensure audio visual aids are maintained in order and used
• Passengers must not be carried except in vehicles provided with passenger seating or on platforms and hoist specificassly designed to carry personnel
• Uderstand the limits of your machine, both loaded and unlaoded. Never exceed the maximum weight shown
• Always load with the mask vertical or tilted back (not telescopic)
• Have the forks widely spaced as practicable to give maximum stability to the load
• Ensure that the load does not obscure your view of the way ahead. IF your view is restricted, travel in reverse. If necessary work with a rigger
• Be ware of other personnel and plant in your working area. Sound hrn whenever to warn other of your approach

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• Avoid sharp obstacles and excessively uneven surcases as far as possible
• Always travel with the load in the lowest practicable position. Do not raise the load while travelling. Wait until the off-loading position has been reached
• Forks must be protected by suitable means when travelling on public highways
• Deposit all loads gently on to designated storage areas or loading platforms
• Always travel at a steady speed consistent with the nature of the load and site condition. Mud and water will affect the brakes
• Do not accelerate, brake or turn violently
• When dirving on inclines, when carrying a load and load should always face uphill. When empty the forks should always face downhill. Adjust tilt to suit gradient and raise just enough to clear the ground
• Ensure that there is always sufficient overhead clearance for the mask. Particular care is required in the vicinity of overhead power lines unless within the confines of "goal post"
• When the machine is parked. The forks shall be lowered to the ground, the ignition keys removed and the handbrake applied
• Keys must not be left in or hidden on the machine
• Report all defects immediately
• Ensure forward protection is provided to the front of the driver to prevent access to the forks eg Mesh grill or window 
• When manriding basket or hook duties are being carried out the tilt locks must be used
• Vehicles licensed and equipped for use on public roads must be checked for road worthiness prior to use
• Towing must be undertaken only when correct towing attachments are fitted. Use correct towing pins
• Do not use lifting chains/rope slings for towing
• Check that your machine is suitable for towing

QUSTIONS

• When can you travel with a raised load?
• When can you carry passengers on a machine?
• What must you do if your forward view is restricted?

SAFETY REMINDER

Know the capability of your machine load stability and security are your prime concerns