Within the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a very vital part. They could efficiently move product through the distribution process. Nevertheless, they should be utilized safely. Incorrect operation of forklifts could result in injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents that could lead to death.
Safety
If you utilize a forklift properly, it is fairly safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each and every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are preventable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Machinery
Forklift operators should be trained on the particular kind of forklift they will be utilizing on the job. A common type used within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually utilized in industry comprise narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators include certification involving both classroom study as well as practical evaluations. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Yale and Clark, the leading companies in the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological advances, particularly leading to improvements in operator safety and the safe and efficient movement of product.