Forklift Controls
One of the most common pieces of equipment you would see in any warehouse is a forklift. These all-around machines consist of a vehicle with two pronged forks at the front that can transport and lift bulky objects.
The regular forklift is built to work and move in small spaces and can lift things to and from high up places. Forklifts are still extremely dangerous equipment and have to be used in a safe way all the time, after proper training and certification has taken place.
Take the time to read the owners manual after acquiring a new forklift to help you get familiar with the controls. The guidebook would feature the specific location of each control and the functions it has. Nearly all lift trucks have two levers which control the forks. The first lever controls the fork height. In order to make the forks go down, the lever should be pushed forward. To be able to move the forks upwards, you simply pull back on the lever.
There is a second lever which controls the forks tilt. This tilting capability allows for better distribution of weight. This tilting action helps to keep items steady and won't allow objects to fall off when driving. Additionally, it helps things slide off in a more balanced method when unloading.
To be able to tilt the forks back, you pull the lever back and in order to tilt the forks forward, you just push the lever forward. Some forklift models are equipped with a third lever that controls the width of the forks. Each and every one of these levers is located just to the right of the driver's seat.
Inexperienced operators should take advantage of experienced coworkers who can go over the controls with them. Be certain to do this while the forklift is off and not being used. Ask the qualified professional if you have any questions regarding how something functions.
Observation is normally the best way to learn new forklift skills. So make time to observe a coworker demonstrating the function of every control. On hydrostatic forklifts, notice that in order to make the machine go, you utilize the gas. And if you would like to make it stop, you just release the gas pedal. There is no brake on these types of lift trucks. There are several types of hydrostatic forklifts that are outfitted with battery powered engines which shut off when the gas pedal is released. They start up when the gas pedal is pushed again.