Forklift Operator Training: How to Drive a Forklift

A forklift is an industrial vehicle used to lift and transport heavy objects. The vehicle sports a projected fork, which is inserted beneath the object to lift it for transportation. Forklifts are used in huge warehouses and construction sites, wherein large objects have to be moved from one place to another.

Though forklifts are considered to be very useful machines, lately they have also attained some notoriety, owing to numerous accidents involving forklift. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates state that around 85 people lose their lives in forklift accidents, while thousands are left injured, every year. Most of these accidents happen due to negligence on the part of the forklift operator, and hence it is very important that he has undergone proper forklift training and knows how to operate a forklift or preferably has prior experience in driving such machines.

How to Drive a Forklift
Some presence of mind, forklift training and some safety measures can ensure that the environment wherein forklifts are used is safe. The forklift, and its handling is the responsibility of the operator. Even when the machine is not being used, the engine should be switched off. When the machine is not carrying load, the fork should be completely lowered.

Before starting the work the operator must do a proper check of the vehicle everyday. If any malfunctioning is observed, it should be promptly reported to the mechanical department for repairs. Using a faulty forklift makes it more vulnerable to accidents, thus risking many lives. It is very important that the operator is well versed with the machine, and its controls.

Going through the operators manual gives a brief idea about the forklift operation. If problems still persist, then the operator should approach the concerned person from the forklift manufacturing company. The driver should have a clear view of the direction in which the machine is heading. The forklift is sometimes driven backwards, especially when the objects being carried in front, block the view. To facilitate this, the rear wheels of the forklift are kept as its steering wheels. A person not used to such a machine may end up with an accident while maneuvering the load, and simultaneously traveling in a relatively congested area. Therefore it's necessary that the operator gets used to the machine before working with a heavy load.

The load should be properly checked before being lifted. Depending on the size and the shape of the object the fork has to be adjusted to a proper width. The operator should never try to lift loads that are heavier than the capacity of the machine. The load should be properly balanced with the fork at the center. More importantly never load material which surpasses the height of the backrest. If not properly secured, it can fall on the driver while the machine is in motion.

The forklift operator should be well versed with the area where he is operating the machine. Going around the place to observe the area, before starting to operate the forklift, is always a good idea. The path on which the forklift will be driven should be clear of obstructions. Operate a forklift in areas, wherein working proletarians can put them in a dangerous situation. Stay clear of other forklifts, if any, ensure that the required distance is left between both the machines. Avoid working in areas which are slippery, crowded or have steep gradient. One should never try to turn the vehicle on a slope.

As a precautionary measure, the driver can practice operating the machine in an open area. Bags of sand or empty boxes can be used while practicing forklift operation. It is wise to become comfortable with the machine, before starting to operate the machine on regular basis with heavy loads. Ensuring that these safety measures are followed, can create a safe and healthy environment at the workplace.