You ask us questions all the time, and while we love answering your questions, this time we’re turning the tables on you.
Here’s a pop quiz, Hot Shot, to see how well you’re paying attention. The subject is:
FORKLIFT SAFETY.
Questions are here. The answers are below. Let’s see how well you do.
- Q: If you’re carrying a load on a sloped surface, which direction is the safest for the forklift to travel?
- Q: Before you climb on board your forklift at the beginning of your shift, what should you always do?
- Q: You’re moving a load and the rear wheels leave the ground. What’s the first thing you should do?
- Q: One of your co-workers wants a ride on the front of the vehicle, on the tines. What should you do?
- Q: You’re moving a load, and the vehicle starts to tip over. What’s your first move?
Give these some thought. As we’ve established, most safety procedures are really just common sense. Don’t over-think your answers.
Let’s see how you did.
- Answer: In reverse. Common sense, if you’re carrying a load and traveling down a sloped surface, that load could slide off. In this case, gravity is your friend- always move loads in reverse down a sloped surface.
- Answer: Complete a visual and manual pre-shift safety check. Log what you see. The pre-shift checklist can not only keep you and your co-workers safe, it can help you identify problems with the unit and keep it functioning in tip-top shape.
- Answer: This happens if your load is too heavy for the forklift. Immediately lower the load, and reconsider how you are moving it. You will likely need to lighten what you are carrying.
- Answer: Don’t do this. Never ever. Ever. It’s extremely dangerous and pretty dumb. Tell your co-worker to get his thrills somewhere else, but not on your watch.
- Answer: Your first impulse will likely be to jump out. DO NOT JUMP OUT. Stay inside, the forklift has a roll cage for a reason. You’ll have your seat belt on and fastened- grab the steering wheel and brace your feet in a wide stance. Be aware that most forklift tip-over accidents happen on inclines and at high speeds. Be smart, and be safe.
Ok, how did you do?
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