Within the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a very vital part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they should be utilized carefully. Improper operation of forklifts could result in injury to workers, damage to products, and serious accidents which can lead to death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe as long as they are utilized properly. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents that involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are preventable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific kind of forklift they will be using on the job. A popular type utilized inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts usually utilized within industry consist of rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which includes both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
Typical forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, leading companies within the worldwide forklift business. Ever since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has undergone a lot of technological changes, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.