While it comes to driving the material handling equipment, then the essential factor to keep in mind is the complete security of the operator and everyone standing in the nearby area. Accidents related to rash driving of lift truck can be physically and emotionally distressing. Apart from the physical and emotional shocks, it can further be devastating monetarily. Irrespective of any harm caused to lift truck operators while operating the forklift, injury to the materials, material handling appliance, and prospective lawsuits can indeed be harmful to your entire business. It is crucially important to consider different factors before sitting in the driver’s seat while operating lift truck for the first time. The best part is that there are various methods to drive the lift truck and preventive estimates to make sure you don’t experience any lift truck related mishaps for your property. As the leading forklift maintenance service provider, we have listed 6 critical factors to consider if you are a first time operator of material handling equipment.

Forklift Operator

Here you go:

#1 You must have appropriate training and have required qualification:

One of the essential factor to consider is to have the right training, license, and qualification for operating the material handling equipment. Apart from having an appropriate qualification on paper, you must also ensure that you are fully relaxed while driving such kind of heavy equipment. There are different factors to consider for painting the used forklift that you must know.

#2 You must also investigate you lift truck on regular basis:

It is highly recommended to examine your material handling appliance on a regular basis. It is the best practice to follow for avoiding the harmful accidents because you will be able to detect the hazardous parts before actively starting off with driving the lift truck. We provide forklift repair service that you can select as per your requirements.

#3 You must also be well acquainted with your lift truck operating surroundings:

To be aware of your forklift operating surroundings is also crucial to consider before you begin with driving it. You must watch the pedestrians carefully every time and make certain they are free from any danger while you are driving the lift truck. It is vital for you to be conscious of any small aisles and check that your material handling appliance has the ability to manage them. You must also have the proper training to drive the forklift even in cold or wet terrains. For any forklift service, feel free to contact us and we will assist you further.

#4 You must also be familiar with the rules of company’s safety while operating lift truck:

Another best practice to follow as the first time operator of material handling appliance is to follow the safety rules prescribed for the operators. It is necessary to accept that you might be a novice to some situations that might have occurred at the time when a material handling equipment had been put to use. We offer the forklift rental services that help you to select the best brand of lift truck for rent as per your usage needs. 

#5 You must also keep the clear visibility while driving the forklift:

Another essential factor to consider is to make sure you are conscious of the load capability of material handling appliance you are driving, well in advance. You will be able to check the same at the rating plate. You must properly follow that set of guidelines and prevent overloading of the lift truck. You must not resort to the counterweights for augmenting the load capability.

Final Words:

For any first-time operator of the material handling equipment, it is more quite essential to follow the factors as mentioned above to keep in mind. It will eventually help you reduce the lift truck accidents from happening thereby keeping you safe and secure while driving.

FAQs About First Time Forklift Operation

As a first time forklift operator, what are the things to keep in mind?

Forklifts are useful machines, but they also injure the operator and the people around if not handled properly. As a first time operator, you must ensure you have been trained well must be fully familiar with the machine, OSHA rules, and regulations, and ensure that you all safety requirements.

Is it important to keep the lift truck in good condition if being used by first-timers?

It is always safe to keep the forklift in good condition so that it performs as expected. If it malfunctions or faces any issue, it can potentially harm workers and damage the goods. Having a proper maintenance plan is a sure way of keeping it in a good condition.

Why being familiar with the machine the operator works with is crucial?

There is a reason why critical tasks are handed over to experienced operators. They not only know the working conditions but also their machines well. Any first time user must follow the same. Before starting operating, they must examine the lift truck well, get to know the intricacies of its operation, and practice before working in the actual conditions. This will ensure they have better control over their maneuvers.

Why is a rating plate important while operating the forklift?

The rating plate displays important information about the operation of the forklift including the maximum weight it can lift, the balanced weight, weight with and without accessories, etc. This is crucial information that the operator must refer to while operating the lift truck. Keeping the rating plate clearly visible will help in knowing the details.

What role does the manufacturer’s manual play for the first timers?

The manufacturer’s manual is more like a guide on how to handle the forklift. It details everything about what safety and precautionary measures must be followed to ensure safe and efficient operation. Keeping or remembering the manufacturer’s manual is extremely important for first time users as it will help them ensure proper operations.