In the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a very important part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nonetheless, they should be utilized safely. Improper operation of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you utilize a forklift properly, it is rather safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are avoidable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the particular kind of forklift they would be using on the job. A common kind used within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts usually utilized within industry include operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators comprise 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 some units. The load capacity of a forklift would depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, top companies within the global forklift industry. Ever since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological changes, mostly leading to enhancements in operator safety and the safe and efficient movement of product.