Operating a forklift of any type requires plenty of training hours. In most cases, you also need to go through a training program at your workplace. Whether you need to do a retraining session or you’re new, you must make a note of the crucial safety tips for using rough terrain forklifts.
Go Through a Training Program
Even while you enjoy the benefits of using rough terrain forklifts in a construction zone or other areas with harsh surfaces, you still need to go through a training program. It shows you how to properly maintain the machine and perform inspections. You also discover why it’s vital to drive correctly rather than any way you want to.
Furthermore, after you’ve completed a live practical examination with a trained supervisor, they can then give you a certification showing you’re ready to drive a rough terrain forklift.
Pay Attention to the Terrain
No matter what type of road you drive on when transporting equipment or tools from one part of the lot to another, you need to remember that you’re on a rougher road than others. In other words, the area you’re driving on might be more uneven than other surfaces.
So be realistic with how much weight you can carry at once. To avoid becoming stuck in muddy or other soft areas, you should observe your surroundings. This way, you can find a good path to move from one location to the other.
Don’t Carry Heavy Loads
It might make sense to think that your rough terrain forklift can hold up to 10,000 pounds, but that’s actually untrue. The service weight is the forklift’s total weight, not how much it can carry.
If you have a lot of weight to move, you need to pay attention to its capacity and the roads you’re driving over. This way, you won’t damage the machine or get into an accident.
Don’t Drive Diagonally
It might seem to make sense to drive diagonally up a hill or down one. However, driving this way can cause you to exceed your speed without realizing it and crash.
So, when going up or down a hill, always drive straight to avoid accidents. Your manufacturer’s manual will list a slope limit and a machine grade to show what types of rough terrain the machine can operate on.
As you wrap the list of safety tips for using rough terrain forklifts, make sure to stay vigilant when operating or walking around other forklift types. Every forklift is different, so be mindful of your surroundings before working.
