Within the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a very vital part. They could efficiently move product through the distribution process. Nevertheless, they must be used safely. Incorrect operation of forklifts could result in injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents that can lead to death.
Safety
Forklifts are rather safe as long as they are used properly. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are preventable with attention to safety and proper training.
Kinds of Machinery
Forklift operators should be trained on the particular kind of forklift they will be using on the job. A popular kind utilized inside distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts commonly utilized within industry comprise operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which covers both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift would depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were first developed by Yale and by Clark, leading companies in the international forklift industry. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has undergone lots of technological advances, mostly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.