STAY SAFE WHEN OPERATING YOUR FORKLIFT TRUCK – DO'S & DON'TS

It’s important to practice safety when operating a forklift truck. Here are some simple tips to remember when operating one:


ALWAYS:

• Carry out a pre-use check of the truck (you can request a pre-use check sheet here)
• Report defects immediately to a Supervisor
• Look all around before moving off
• Make sure the work path is free of obstructions
• Look in the direction of travel
• Travel at a speed suitable for the location and load
• Travel with the forks lowered, but clear of the ground
• Watch out for pedestrians and obstructions
• Slow down at corners, doorways, and at danger spots, sound the horn where necessary
• When getting in or out, face the truck and use steps and handles

NEVER:

• Operate a truck unless you are trained and authorised to do so
• Use a forklift that you know is not working properly
• Operate controls from outside the cab, unless it is designed to do so
• Start or stop suddenly
• Make abrupt or quick turns
• Travel on uneven ground unless the truck is designed to do so
• Run over unprotected cables or pipes
• Operate a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Use mobile phones while operating a truck

For more advice and tips about forklift safety and how you can improve safety in your operation, contact us