Within the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a very vital part. They can efficiently move product through the distribution process. Then again, they must be used safely. Improper use of forklifts could result in damage to products, injury to workers, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you utilize a forklift correctly, it is rather safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that nearly all of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and correct training.
Kinds of Machinery
Depending on the specific kind of forklift which will be used on the job, the forklift operator must be trained. A common type utilized within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts frequently utilized in industry consist of narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators comprise certification involving both classroom study as well as practical evaluations. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a typical forklift. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in some units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were first developed by Yale and by Clark, leading companies within the international forklift industry. Ever since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has undergone lots of technological changes, particularly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.