Rough Terrain Forklift Safety
Made for construction locations, where materials should be transported on surfaces that are not paved are rough terrain forklifts. The safe and correct use of rough terrain forklifts is essential in order to ensure the wellbeing of both the operator and other employees at the work site.
Terrain
These trucks are built for rough terrain, but care must still be taken to be able to avoid tip overs. The forklift is top heavy and when lifting, must just be operated on level ground.
Speed
Operators of forklifts should always drive at a safe speed even if there are no Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations governing the speed limits of forklifts. Driving on rough or uneven terrain requires even more caution. Steering, in particular, could be very risky at faster speeds.
Incline
When you are operating on an incline, you must keep the load on the machine's uphill side. The rule of thumb is drive up, and back down. Do not try to raise a load while operating on a sloped surface. The change in the center of gravity could cause the machine to tip over.
Safety Devices
Like any driver, forklift drivers are obliged to put on seat belts. Make sure that the overhead guard is securely in place. Depending upon the working surroundings, hearing and eye protection may need to be worn. Make sure that a working fire extinguisher is mounted on the forklift.
Weather
The operating conditions of a forklift can be affected by weather conditions. Speed, turning and load handling may need to be adjusted to guarantee safety when operating a forklift in snow, ice or rain.