Forklifts play an important role within the distribution of goods. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they should be utilized safely. Improper use of forklifts can result in injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift properly, it is fairly safe. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are preventable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators should be trained on the particular kind of forklift they would be using on the job. A popular type used inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts frequently used in industry include operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which covers both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching 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 some units. A forklift's load capacity will depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Yale and by Clark, leading companies in the global forklift business. Since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through various technological changes, mostly leading to the safe and efficient movement of product and improvements in operator safety.