How to Operate a Forklift —— Pre-Operation Preparation
Pre-Operation Preparation
2025-11-07
How to Operate a Forklift
1. Pre-Operation Preparation
Before starting the forklift, thorough preparation is essential to ensure safety and smooth operation.
-Follow these steps: - Operator Qualification: Only certified and trained operators are allowed to operate a forklift. Ensure you have completed the required training and hold a valid forklift operation license.
-Vehicle Inspection: Conduct a pre-operation check using the manufacturer’s checklist.
-Key items include: Exterior: Check for damage to the body, forks, mast, and tires (look for wear, cracks, or low pressure).
- Controls: Test the steering wheel, brake pedal (service and parking brakes), accelerator, and hydraulic levers (lift, lower, tilt forward/backward) for smooth operation.
- Instrument Panel: Verify that all gauges (fuel level, oil pressure, temperature) and warning lights are functioning correctly.
- Fluids: Check fuel, oil, coolant, and hydraulic fluid levels. Top up if necessary and check for leaks.
- Safety Devices: Ensure the horn, backup alarm, lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals), and seatbelt are working properly.
Work Area Check: Inspect the operating area for obstacles, uneven surfaces, wet or slippery floors, and other potential hazards.
Clear any debris and ensure there is sufficient space for maneuvering.
2. Operation Steps
1. Starting the Forklift: Sit in the operator’s seat and fasten the seatbelt securely.
2. Adjust the seat and steering wheel to a comfortable position with clear visibility.
3. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position and wait for the system to initialize (check gauges and warning lights).
4. Depress the clutch pedal (if equipped) and shift the gear lever to the "neutral" position.
5. Start the engine by turning the ignition key further or pressing the start button. Release the key/button once the engine starts.
6. Driving the Forklift: Release the parking brake.
7. Depress the clutch pedal (if manual) and shift to the desired gear (forward or reverse). Gradually release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator.
8. Maintain a safe speed (typically 5 mph or less in indoor areas) and keep a safe distance from other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles.
9. Use the turn signals when changing direction and sound the horn at intersections, blind spots, or when approaching pedestrians.
10. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and focus on the path ahead. Be aware of the forklift’s turning radius to avoid collisions. 11. Lifting and Lowering Loads: Position the forklift directly in front of the load, ensuring the forks are spaced evenly apart to support the load’s center of gravity.
12. Lower the forks to the lowest position (close to the ground) and slowly drive forward until the forks are fully under the load.
13. Use the hydraulic lever to lift the load slightly (2-4 inches off the ground) and check if it is stable. If unstable, reposition the forks. 14. Tilt the mast backward slightly to secure the load and prevent it from sliding forward during transport.
15. When lowering the load, position it over the desired location, tilt the mast forward slightly, and slowly lower the forks using the hydraulic lever.
16. Stacking and Retrieving Loads: When stacking, drive the forklift carefully to the storage rack, ensuring alignment with the rack beams.
17. Lift the load to a height slightly above the rack beam, then drive forward slowly to place the load on the beam. 18. Lower the forks slightly to release the load, then tilt the mast forward and slowly back up the forklift.
19. When retrieving a load, reverse the process: drive forward, align the forks with the load, lift the forks slightly to engage the load, tilt the mast backward, and lift the load off the rack.
20. Parking the Forklift: Bring the forklift to a complete stop in a designated parking area, away from traffic, fire exits, and hazardous materials.
21. Shift the gear lever to "neutral" and engage the parking brake.
22. Lower the forks to the ground (touching the surface) and tilt the mast forward slightly.
23. Turn off the engine, remove the ignition key, and engage any additional safety locks (if equipped).
3. Post-Operation Notes
- Clean the Forklift: Remove any debris, dirt, or spilled materials from the forklift, especially around the forks, mast, and operator’s seat.
- Report Issues: Document any damage, malfunctions, or unusual noises encountered during operation and report them to the maintenance team immediately.
- Secure the Area: Ensure the parking area is secure and the forklift is not accessible to unauthorized personnel.
4. Safety Key Points
-Never exceed the forklift’s rated load capacity. Check the load capacity plate (located on the forklift) before lifting any load. Overloading can cause the forklift to tip over.
-Keep the load low during transport (except when stacking/retrieving) to maintain stability. A high load raises the center of gravity, increasing the risk of tipping.
-Do not turn with a raised load or drive over uneven surfaces with a load, as this can lead to loss of control.
-Always yield to pedestrians in the workplace. Pedestrians have the right of way, so slow down and stop if necessary.
-Avoid sudden starts, stops, or turns. Smooth operation helps prevent load shifting and maintains forklift stability.
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