Forklift Safety

All powered industrial truck certifications require classroom or online instruction, a knowledge evaluation, a practical demonstration, and a hands-on skills test.

1. Discuss with Supervisor: Notify your supervisor of your operational needs so they can coordinate with Environment, Health & Safety (EHS).
2. Complete Online Instruction: Complete the online course and knowledge assessment through Vector Solutions .
3. Schedule Practical Assessment: Your supervisor will arrange the hands-on demonstration and practical evaluation with EHS.
4. Maintain Certification Records: After passing the practical evaluation, EHS will maintain certification records.

Forklifts are selected based on operational needs, terrain, available space, and load requirements.

1. Stand-Up Rider Forklifts: The operator stands inside the vehicle during operation.
   

   Figure 1: Stand-up rider forklift.
2. Stand-Up Narrow Aisle Rider Forklifts: Electric lifts designed for tight aisles and may use outriggers for additional stability.
   

   Figure 2: Narrow-aisle forklift.
3. Sit-Down Rider Forklifts: The operator works seated inside the cab. These typically use a rear counterweight to balance carried loads.
   
4. Powered Pallet Jacks: Motorized pallet jacks controlled using buttons and switches located on the control handle.
   
5. Reach Forklifts / Telehandlers: Heavy-duty units with extending telescopic booms designed for outdoor, rough-terrain, or multi-level material handling.
   

Standard powered industrial truck components include:

Operators use control levers to raise, lower, and tilt loads, as well as adjust fork positioning where equipped.

Always review the vehicle data plate for maximum weight capacity. Load ratings vary based on load center and fork positioning.

Monitor travel paths for grade changes, uneven surfaces, or debris. Avoid overextending the mast or exceeding capacity limits.

• Never stand or walk underneath a raised load.
• Keep loads close to the mast and maintain a low center of gravity.
• Loaded Truck: Travel on slopes with the load pointed upslope.
• Unloaded Truck: Travel with the forks low and the operator cab facing upslope.

Always face the direction of travel and continuously check blind spots. When reversing, turn and look behind you. Use a spotter when operating in narrow or obstructed areas.

Use a spotter when traveling near overhead piping, structures, or electrical hazards. Establish clear communication before work begins.

Travel with forks lowered only high enough to clear the ground. Keep forks tilted back during transport and tilt forward only when stacking or unstacking.

Bring the truck to a complete stop before adjusting or repositioning a load. Never adjust mast position while driving.

• Within 25 ft and in line of sight: Lower forks, neutralize controls, and set the parking brake.
• More than 25 ft away or out of sight: Lower forks, neutralize controls, set the parking brake, shut off the ignition, and chock wheels when parked on an incline.

Inspect powered industrial trucks before the start of each shift. Review prior inspection logs and remove damaged equipment from service immediately.

Operators must complete and document a pre-shift safety inspection before operating a forklift.

• Tires: Check for missing chunks, embedded debris, cuts, or worn tread.
• Fluid Leaks: Inspect underneath the truck for hydraulic oil, fuel, or battery fluid leaks.
• Overhead Guard & Frame: Inspect structural components for cracks, broken welds, or other damage.
• Mast & Chains: Inspect hydraulic hoses, lifting chains, and mast assemblies.
• Fuel & Power Connections: Inspect tanks, cables, and battery connections.
• Seatbelt & Restraints: Confirm proper latching and inspect webbing condition.

• Battery & Gauges: Confirm adequate charge and normal instrument readings.
• Brakes & Steering: Verify steering response and test service and parking brakes.
• Hydraulic Controls: Test raising, lowering, tilting, and side-shifting.
• Warning Devices: Test the horn, backup alarm, and safety lights.