Do’s:

  • Do undertake a pre-operational inspection at the start of each shift, working day or prior to use, and document it in the logbook.
  • Do the pre-operational inspection and other visual inspections and functional tests as per manufacturer’s requirements.
  • Do operate the forklift in accordance with the relative standard applicable in your country.
  • Do follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions and requirements for safe loading. If in doubt, forklifts should not be operated, nor potentially hazardous tasks undertaken until specific requirements have been determined to ensure safe operation.
  • Do wear a seatbelt at all times while operating a forklift.
  • Do always raise loads with the mast vertical or tilted slightly backwards.
  • Do always ascend and descend ramps slowly and at all times keep the load of the forklift facing up the slope.
  • Do always carry a load with its heavy end against the heel of the fork arms.
  • Do ensure that the mast is tilted to the rear when travelling with a load.
  • Do drive slowly when turning and always be conscious of rear-end swing – Note: Unladen forklifts are less stable laterally than a loaded forklift and can be easily overturned when cornering.
  • Do avoid sudden starting and stopping to reduce the risk of load movement and overturning of the forklift – Note: A fully laden forklift can only apply 30% – 50% of the available braking before tipping occurs.
  • Do always bring the forklift to a stop before changing direction from forward to reverse or vice versa.
  • Do slow down and sound the horn when passing by or through access ways, at entrances to buildings, at crossings and any other location where vision is obstructed; and
  • Do understand that driving with the load raised, or even with the empty load carriage raised, seriously reduces stability in all directions and should not occur except when manoeuvring during picking up or placing the load.