1. Safe Forklift Operations
Dustin Flavell
Sierra Foothill Research & Extension Center

2. Training Session Overview
Terminology Overview
Safety Video
Operating Rules for Industrial Trucks
Load Capacity Requirements
Pre-shift Inspection
Unusual Features of Forklift Operation

3. SIT-DOWN COUNTERBALANCE LIFT TRUCK
Backrest
Carriage
Forks
Mast
Tires
Drive Axle
Steering Axle
Counterbalance
Overhead Guard

4. Safety Video

5. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
5. Keep clear of forklift mast uprights and all other parts where shear and crushing hazards exist 5.

6. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
6. Do not stand, pass or work under the elevated
portion of a forklift
6. Empty or loaded, only time permissible when properly blocked to prevent falling

7. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
7. Forklift must be check at least once before use each day

9. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
8. Forklifts with fuel system leaks may not be operated
9. Forklifts must maintain a safe speed & distance from other vehicles
10. Do not pass other lifts at dangerous locations
11. Drivers must slow down & sound horn at dangerous locations
8. Part of check list, 9.Keep lift under positive control, all established traffic regulations must be observed, 3 vehicle lengths if following others, 10. Such as intersections, blind spots, 11. Places where vision is obstructed, if the load is obstructing vision, travel with load trailing

10. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
Be sure all people are clear before moving a forklift in any direction
Do not drive towards people standing around fixed objects
13. People could get caught between and hurt

11. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
Ascend & Descend grades slowly
Forks shall be carried as low as possible

12. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
When leaving a forklift unattended:
Shut the power off
Set the parking brake
Mast must be down in the vertical position
Wheels blocked if on an incline
16. Power may be left on if all of the above is done plus front & rear wheels choked

13. How Far is Considered Unattended?
25 feet
Over 25 feet or out of sight of the forklift
DONUTS

14. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
24. One tire width minimum distance from the edge of any elevated dock or platform

15. Operating Rules – Industrial Trucks
Do not load forklifts in excess of their rated capacity.
A loaded forklift may not be moved until the load is safe and secure
Use extreme care when tilting loads
31. If loads are lifted by two or more forklifts working in unison the load shall not exceed the combined rated lifting capacity of all trucks involved
26. Clearly posted on forklift mast, remember from the video capacity is based on a 24” load center ex. AC lift, 28. Tilt forward only when pick up or depositing a load, but not while elevating. Back tilting should only be used to stabilize a load

16. Rules covered in video Only trained personnel may operate a forklift
Stunt driving & horseplay is prohibited
No riders on forklifts
Riding is not allowed on the forks of a forklift
,7,11,13,17,20,21,22(18,19,23,25,30,31 – N/A)
Trained on the safe use of, 2. self explanatory, 3. Unless properly equipped, 4. Pinch points & falling

17. Unusual Features Forklift Operations
Rear Steering
Wide swing of rear of forklift when turning
Potential for tipping over
Potential for loss of load off forks during operation
Positioning of load
Reduction in rated capacity
Operating in reverse
THINGS TO BE AWARE OF: 5. Well back on the forks & centered 6.This can occur when load is carried at fork tips or if load is not based on a 24 inch center 7. This should be done if forward view is obstructed by load.

18. Operating Rules for Elevating People
Only use a securely attached safety platform
Be sure the lift mechanism is working smoothly
Never tilt the mast forward or backward
Place forklift in neutral with parking brake set
Watch for overhead obstructions
Keep hands clear of controls when not in use
Never travel with personnel on the safety platform
Other considerations
Where your hard hat (being lifted). Make sure to have good communication between both parties