How to Utilize a Forklift
Lift trucks are lifting machines which can transport loads. They are usually used in various industries to transport heavy materials. They can be found at warehouses, airports and building supply companies. Any person operating a lift truck has to be trained to cautiously use the machinery. It is essential to be completely aware of one's environment while driving a forklift. Forklifts are designed to run on propane, gasoline, diesel or batteries. Typical lift trucks are popular in a wide array of commercial applications and are not hard to use with proper training. The following steps outline the basics of using a forklift:
1 Get familiar with all the levers which are used to transport and maneuver the load from location to another location. The levers can be found to the steering wheel's right side.
2 The first lever controls the up and down movement of the tines. Pushing the lever away from you moves them down and pulling the lever towards you moves the blades up. Blades must always be kept near the ground except when loading or unloading.
3 The other two levers control the tilt as well as the left/right movement of the blades. The blades are designed to tilt between 15 and 30 degrees. It is recommended that you practice before picking up a load. Using the second lever, pull it towards you to tilt the blades back, and push it away from you to tilt the forks forward.
4 Lever number 4 is used to control the side to side movement of the forks from left to right. Just move the lever towards where you want the blades to move: right in order to move the tines right and left to move the tines left.
5 Cautiously approach the cargo. Lower the blades and carefully drive forward until the tines slide under the cargo. Next lift the blades several centimeters by pulling the lever towards your body. If the load is top-heavy, you must tilt the forks backwards a little for balance.
6 Warn other individuals and employees when the forklift is approaching by honking and take safety measures by taking corners slowly and honking. Approach the place where you will be working with caution. Control the levers to maneuver the cargo to where it is going. When the load is positioned, reverse gears and back away carefully.
7 Forklifts stop pretty much the same way as other types of vehicles. The brake is located to the left side of the accelerator. Once stopped, shift the gear into "park."