Operator errors affecting forklift statics and work safety

In internal transport, there are a number of hazards when performing operations with typical forklifts with a front mast. These hazards result, among other things, from errors made by drivers – forklift operators when picking up loads on the vehicle’s forks, during transport, and when stacking goods.

The most common errors include:
– lack of knowledge of the limitations and capabilities of the forklift
– inability to estimate the lifted mass in the absence of information from other sources
– picking up loads positioned asymmetrically on the forks due to the center of gravity location
– picking up a load without inserting the forks to their full depth
– working with the tips of the forks while the rear axle wheels are lifting
– driving the forklift across a significant slope, as well as driving over bumps and with uneven tire pressure
– taking sharp turns at excessive speed and sudden braking
– improper lifting of forks and positioning of the mast while driving with and without a load
– improper descent from a slope and transport of palletized loads that obstruct visibility
– poor approach to the stack – turning wheels and hitting with forks
– using forklifts with faulty indicators and lack of records regarding the technical condition of the forklift after finishing work and in other cases.

Particular attention should be paid to activities requiring high operator concentration. This occurs when operating the lifting mechanism to significant heights. All recommendations provided in the operating manual of the forklift being used must be taken into account.
Fig. 1 shows the method used for stacking palletized loads and the operator’s subsequent actions:
1) lifting,
2) approaching to a close distance,
3) tilting the mast to the horizontal position of the forks,
4) lowering the load,
5) reversing the forklift.
Lifting, tilting, and lowering operations are performed with the brake applied.

The article comes from the magazine “Logistyka” 1/2005.