Within the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a really important part. They can efficiently transport product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they must be utilized carefully. Incorrect use of forklifts can cause injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents that can result in death.
Safety
If you operate a forklift properly, it is rather 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 nearly all of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and proper training.
Types of Machines
Forklift operators should be trained on the particular type of forklift they will be using on the job. A popular kind utilized within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts frequently used within industry include narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that includes 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 changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
Typical 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. A forklift's load capacity will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Clark and Yale, the leading companies within the worldwide forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through various technological advances, particularly leading to improvements in operator safety and the safe and efficient movement of product.