Operation of a Basic Forklift
Source: Hyundai
Steps
1. LEARN ABOUT THE FORKLIFT: Practice will be needed in order to operate a forklift effectively and safely. They are steered with their back wheels instead of the front ones like cars. They also have unwieldy weight distribution, and commonly require specialized training or a license to operate them. Before operating the forklift, be sure to know about how it works.
2. GO OVER THE PRE-OPERATIONS CHECKLIST: Before operating any forklift, complete the pre-operations checklist. Check for anything that looks damaged, or that could cause the forklift to malfunction. Pay special attention to the tires condition and hydraulic mechanisms.
3. FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH CONTROLS AND METER READINGS: Be sure you understand the basics of operating the forklift.
4. START THE FORKLIFT: Turn the key and start the forklift.
5. BEGIN USING THE FORKLIFT: Practice with some empty pallets in a clear area until you are comfortable. Then, begin whatever work needs to be done. The only way to truly learn to use a forklift is through experience.
1. LEARN ABOUT THE FORKLIFT: Practice will be needed in order to operate a forklift effectively and safely. They are steered with their back wheels instead of the front ones like cars. They also have unwieldy weight distribution, and commonly require specialized training or a license to operate them. Before operating the forklift, be sure to know about how it works.
2. GO OVER THE PRE-OPERATIONS CHECKLIST: Before operating any forklift, complete the pre-operations checklist. Check for anything that looks damaged, or that could cause the forklift to malfunction. Pay special attention to the tires condition and hydraulic mechanisms.
3. FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH CONTROLS AND METER READINGS: Be sure you understand the basics of operating the forklift.
4. START THE FORKLIFT: Turn the key and start the forklift.
5. BEGIN USING THE FORKLIFT: Practice with some empty pallets in a clear area until you are comfortable. Then, begin whatever work needs to be done. The only way to truly learn to use a forklift is through experience.
Controls Parts
1. Accelerator
2. Brake
3. Clutch/Brake
4. Fork control levers- Lift, Tilt, and Side Shift
5. Lights
6. Horn
7. Steering Wheel
8. Blinkers (sometimes)
9. Parking Brake
10. Gear Control (Forward, Neutral, Reverse)
1. Accelerator
2. Brake
3. Clutch/Brake
4. Fork control levers- Lift, Tilt, and Side Shift
5. Lights
6. Horn
7. Steering Wheel
8. Blinkers (sometimes)
9. Parking Brake
10. Gear Control (Forward, Neutral, Reverse)
Source: Liftright
Meter Readings
Not all forklifts have the exact same meter readings. The following are, from left to right in the pictures, an example of what would most likely be seen.
1. Neutral
2. Parking Brake Engaged
3. Transmission Oil Temperature Warning
4. Engine Oil Pressure Warning
5. Seat Belt Not On
6. Warning
7. Battery Low
8. Propane Tank Low
9. Forks Not on the Ground
Not all forklifts have the exact same meter readings. The following are, from left to right in the pictures, an example of what would most likely be seen.
1. Neutral
2. Parking Brake Engaged
3. Transmission Oil Temperature Warning
4. Engine Oil Pressure Warning
5. Seat Belt Not On
6. Warning
7. Battery Low
8. Propane Tank Low
9. Forks Not on the Ground
Remember Visibility- make sure you know what's around you before moving the forklift
Forklift Capacity- know what your forklift capacity is
Daily Safety Check- be sure to take the time for the safety check
Assess the Workplace- be aware of blind spots, slippery conditions, pedestrians, etc.
Forklift Capacity- know what your forklift capacity is
Daily Safety Check- be sure to take the time for the safety check
Assess the Workplace- be aware of blind spots, slippery conditions, pedestrians, etc.
Additional Safety Tips
When getting onto the forklift, look out for the overhead guard
While carrying anything that disrupts your view, drive in reverse
While driving, keep the forks only a couple inches above the floor, never up too high
Beep your horn once or twice anytime you will be coming up to a corner that you cannot see beyond
Always wear the seatbelt
Keep your appendages within the confines of the forklift at all times
Have the forks resting on the ground while parking the forklift