Forklift Controls
One of the most common types of machines you would see in any warehouse is a forklift. These versatile equipment are comprised of a vehicle with two split forks at the front that could haul and lift heavy objects.
Forklifts are able to maneuver in small spaces and can lift things into up high, hard to reach places. Forklifts are still really dangerous machinery and must be used in a safe manner at all times, after correct training and certification has taken place.
Make the time to read the owners instruction manual after acquiring a new forklift to help you familiarize yourself with the controls. The instruction manual would feature the specific location of every control and the functions it has. The majority of lift trucks have two levers that control the forks. The first lever controls the fork height. In order to make the forks go down, you push the lever forward. To move the forks upwards, you simply pull back on the lever.
The forklift's second lever is utilized to tilt the forks allowing for better distribution of weight across the forklift. This tilting action helps to keep items steady and won't allow items to fall off while driving. Additionally, it helps objects slide off when unloading in a more balanced way.
By pulling the second lever back, the forks will tilt back, while pushing the lever forward will tilt the forks forward. Various kinds of forklifts are equipped with a third lever which controls the width of the forks. Each and every one of these levers is situated just to the right of the driver's seat.
Inexperienced operators should take advantage of qualified coworkers who can go over the controls with them. Be sure to do this while the forklift is turned off and not operational. Ask the trained expert if you have any questions regarding how something works.
Watch how the coworker demonstrates the function of each of the controls. Observation is usually the best way to learn a new skill. On hydrostatic lift trucks, notice that in order to make the machine go, you use the gas. And if you would like to make it stop, you just release the gas pedal. There is no brake on these types of forklifts. There are some types of hydrostatic forklifts which are complete with battery powered engines that turn off when the gas pedal is released. They start up when the gas pedal is pushed again.