Lifts make moving items, retrieving items, and re-organizing a warehouse an easier job all around. Although lifts provide an unmatched convenience, they can turn deadly if not handled properly. If you are new to operating a lift, there are certain safety precautions that you should know in order to operate your lift at a safe level and prevent injury or damage to your inventory.
Take Time To Inspect Before Using
At the start of every shift, you should employ a thorough inspection of the lift before you even think about starting it up and getting to work. Inspect the prongs, the two large metal pieces on the front of the lift that are used to lift items and secure them; the horn, which is located on the steering wheel and used to alert others that you are coming through the warehouse; and the lifting mechanism, the motor and pulleys that are used to move the lift’s prongs up and down. The lift should also make a visit to a mechanic once a month so that he can check on the integrity of the engine, as well as replace any fluids, such as oil, that might be low.
If you notice any sign that something is amiss, whether large or small, resist the temptation to operate the lift anyway. If you ignore signs of trouble and use the lift, you could have it lose control, or have the lifting mechanism malfunction and throw off your loads. If you sight any damage or potential damage to the lift, alert the mechanic on site immediately.
Only Allow Those Properly Certified to Operate the Lift
Operating lifts is different than operating other vehicles and machinery. Due to this fact, it’s important that before operating a lift, you complete a safety and learning course to earn the proper certification. During forklift certification you will spend time in a classroom setting, learning the ins and outs of using the machine. After some class time, you will practice using a forklift with an instructor present. Before you can obtain your certification you will have to complete a written test, as well as an evaluated driving test.
Don’t Load Your Lift Haphazardly
When you are carrying a load, you need to make sure that you load the lift in a way that maximizes the safety and minimizes the chances of the load coming loose. All loads should be set as far back on the lift as possible. Resist the urge to take the easy route of placing the load in the middle of the lift, which increases instability.
Before you load, be sure to understand the maximum amount of weight that the lift can carry. Never load the lift beyond the weight limit, as this can upset the balance of the lift, potentially tipping your load or the entire lift. If straps are available, make sure that loads are strapped in securely each time.
Stay Alert
In order to provide optimal safety for not only the person operating the lift, but other workers in the warehouse, it is imperative to stay alert when operating a lift. As you are driving the lift or moving loads, ensure that you are at a proper speed. Operating the lift at high speeds makes controlling the lift suddenly difficult. While operating, you should not be wearing headphones or items that can muffle noises. You might need to be alerted of a potential disaster, which won’t happen effectively if you are blocking out what is going on around you.
Avoid jerky, sudden movements, as these kind of motions can potentially throw what you are carrying off of the lift. When you need to back up or make a turn, thoroughly check the area to ensure that there are no objects or people in your path.
Knowing how to properly use a lift ensures safety on the job and prevents costly accidents. There are about 15,000 injuries to warehouse workers each year in the US that could usually have been prevented. To keep yourself and your coworkers from becoming another injured worker on that list, ensure that you are properly using your lift every time. Resist the urge to skip any precautions that could end up saving someone’s life one day.