Using a Regular Counterbalance lift truck
1 Before operating the machinery, perform a pre-shift inspection. OSHA guidelines do state that pre-shift checklists need to be carried out every day or each shift. Each different equipment as well as its attachments has its own checklist listing brakes, steering, lights, emergency brakes, horn, controls and safety features.
2 Start up the machine and check controls. Primarily make sure that your seatbelt is fixed firmly and the seat is securely in place and adjusted for your comfort. Look under the machine after you move it for any indications of leaks. The operation of each kind of forklift is different.
3 Don't forget differences in the basics of forklift operation compared to a regular vehicle. The forklift's rear end swing occurs due to the fact that the truck steers using its rear wheels. Forgetting this information is a major cause of injuries and accidents to workers. The almost 90-degree turn from the front wheels should be done with great care. These top-heavy machinery have a high center of gravity even without a load. When moving or lifting a load this top-heaviness is exacerbated.
4 Keep forks near the ground when traveling. Use care when approaching loads. Be sure the forks line up properly with the pallet. Lift the load just as high as is necessary, tilting it back to help stabilize the machinery. Only drive backwards if the load is so bulky that it obstructs driver vision.
5 Check the wheels on trucks/trailers prior to unloading and loading. Do not travel on inclines, specially when lifting a load. The machine can tip over on a slope. When driving on an incline is necessary, always drive up the slope and back down. The load must be kept on the uphill side of the truck.
6 The operator should be firmly in control all the time. The primary cause of operator injuries is tip-over. The driver should never try to jump out of the truck in case of a tip-over. The safest way is to lean away from the direction of fall while gripping the steering wheel and bracing your feet.