Forklifts play an important part within the distribution of goods. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they must be utilized safely. Improper use of forklifts could result in injury to workers, damage to products, and serious accidents which can result in death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift correctly, it is quite safe. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents that involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and proper training.
Kinds of Equipment
Depending on the specific kind of forklift that will be used on the job, the forklift operator must be trained. A popular kind utilized within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts frequently used within industry consist of rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that includes both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a standard forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in several units. A forklift's load capacity would depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Yale and by Clark, top companies within the international forklift industry. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has undergone lots of technological advances, particularly leading to the safe and efficient movement of product and enhancements in operator safety.