Getting Aboard the Forklift
Amongst the keys to maintaining operator safety is the 3-point dismount. Even if this is often overlooked, it is a key issue in keeping operator's safe. Like for example, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant perfectly carried out the course at a forklift rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his machine and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he failed to win the competition.
The really serious problem of dismounting and mounting the forklift is included in training. Having the operators wear their seatbelts could also help save their lives in event of any tip-overs. It is essential to understand that if a loaded lift truck's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation could occur. Skilled drivers rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is very essential that they are prepared for that risk in case it happens.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of correctly dismounting and mounting any kind of lift truck, including even a low platform pallet jack is essential to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries result when complacency happens around these machinery. Several of the serious situations comprise: Driver's catching their loose clothing or coveralls while dismounting and could end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the operator can break or sprain an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator could accidentally break an arm when slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The driver can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris while they are still hanging onto the handhold with one hand.
In order to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is essential. Obtaining 3 points can be done with 2 hands and 1 foot or by 2 feet and 1 hand. This stance is exactly like climbing up or down a ladder. Don't forget to always face the machine. Drivers normally have a tendency to jump or hop off the equipment or to face away from the machinery and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall risk of injury to themselves.
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