Forklifts play an essential part in the distribution of goods. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Then again, they must be utilized safely. Incorrect use of forklifts can cause injury to workers, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift properly, it is rather safe. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which 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 should be trained on the particular type of forklift they would be utilizing on the job. A popular type used inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts normally used in industry comprise rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which covers both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in some units. A forklift's load capacity depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Clark and Yale, the top companies in the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological changes, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and enhancements in operator safety.