Education With a Purpose: A Blog About Trade Schools

Forklift Training: Operating Commercial Equipment Safely as a Novice

22 December 2020

Irene Tucker

Forklifts are indispensable in numerous commercial operations because they allow for convenient handling of goods. When used correctly, these pieces of equipment promote productivity in workplaces and reduce the occurrence of injuries related to moving goods. However, poor operation will cause mishaps, accidents and losses. Therefore, if you are interested in becoming a forklift operator, you must invest in proper training. Moreover, you must be aware of the safety aspects of handling the equipment. Here are some critical tips to help you train for safe forklift handling.

Know the Dangers

The commercial and industrial spaces in which you will operate a forklift will be rife with hazards. Therefore, you must make it a habit to check for dangers which could interfere with the equipment. Keep in mind that forklifts are quite heavy, and they become less stable when carrying goods. As a result, their function can be compromised by seemingly minute obstacles on their path. When training, you should seek to understand all these dangers.

For instance, uneven surfaces can cause the forklift to lose its steadiness. It is important to avoid handling the equipment on bumpy or otherwise rough surfaces. Also, check the ground for fallen materials, including debris and spilled liquids. You should also remember that there are moving hazards such as people, other forklifts and trucks. Avoid collisions with these mobile dangers by observing surroundings and moving carefully around blind spots like corners.

Learn the Signs

Commercial and industrial worksites have specific rules relating to the safe handling of forklifts. These regulations are in place to minimise the risk of serious accidents. Therefore, when training for operation, you should pay attention to the details pertaining to forklift signage. For instance, weight and clearance signage is critical when moving loads through sensitive areas like bridge plates, so there will be signs indicating the details. You must also learn how to handle a forklift within typical roadways designated for such equipment. In addition, ensure that you have a clear understanding of equipment speed limits, especially when carrying a load.

Plan for Ramps

Finally, you should practice operating a forklift when moving on ramps during the training period. This aspect of handling is critical because most serious accidents are related to poor practices on slopes. In general, you must remember that the equipment must be driven in reverse when going down and forwards when going up a ramp. Also, overloading must be avoided on ramps because the risk of loss of stability is high. Additionally, maintain safe speeds at all times.

Look around you to find forklift training courses that you can enrol in. 

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