Forklift Controls
In any warehouse environment, amongst the most common equipments is a forklift or lift truck. These versatile equipment are comprised of a vehicle along with two split forks at the front that are capable of moving and carrying heavy things.
Forklifts could maneuver in small spaces and can lift items into hard to reach, up high places. Lift trucks are still extremely dangerous equipment and must be utilized safely at all times, after proper training and certification has taken place.
Take the time to read the owners instruction manual after acquiring a new forklift to help you get familiar with the controls. The manual will feature the specific location of each control and the functions it has. The majority of lift trucks have two levers which control the forks. The first lever controls the height of the fork. In order to make the forks go down, you push the lever forward. To move the forks upwards, you simply pull back on the lever.
There is a second lever which controls the tilt of the forks. This tilting capability allows for better distribution of weight. This tilting action helps to keep things stable and won't allow items to fall off when driving. Furthermore, it helps things slide off while unloading in a more balanced method.
In order to tilt the forks back, you pull the lever back and in order to tilt the forks forward, you simply push the lever forward. Several forklift models are equipped with a third lever that controls the width of the forks. Every one of these levers is situated just to the right of the driver's seat.
Inexperienced operators should take advantage of experienced coworkers who can go over the controls with them. Be certain to do this while the forklift is off and not in use. Ask the qualified professional if you have any questions about how anything functions.
Watch how the coworker shows the function of each of the controls. Observation is normally the best method to learn a new skill. On hydrostatic lift trucks, notice that in order to make the machinery go, you use the gas. And if you want to make it stop, you simply release the gas pedal. There is no brake on these types of lift trucks. There are some hydrostatic models which are outfitted with battery powered engines which turn off when the gas pedal is released. They start up once the gas pedal is pushed again.