subject: Whenever You Buy A Forklift It Requires A Forklift Certification [print this page] When you buy a new or used fork lift, it is required by OSHA that you obtain a forklift certification. This is achieved in a variety of ways, and is much like a driver's license. Anyone over the age of 18 can obtain this certification. The forklift certification will typically be provided by your employer. Many people do not realize how dangerous operating forklifts could be. This is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, known as OSHA, require all forklift users to have a certification to operate a pre-owned lift truck. This certification is necessary due to forklift safety concerns. It's your employer's responsibility to provide this training to you, because they can inherit a sizable fine if not properly complied with.
Were you aware that NCSU has calculated about 100 workers killed each year in forklift accidents, and one quarter of the accidents are as a result of over turns? According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the 3 most typical forklift accidents are forklift overturns; workers struck, crushed, or pinned by a forklift; and falls from a forklift. Plant Services has provided some valuable suggestions to consider: In case your forklift starts to tip over, your first reaction might be to jump from it. This is not the safest method to prevent a personal injury.
It is suggested that whenever a forklift begins to tip over, you remain in the seat with your seatbelt fastened You need to tighten your grip around the steering wheel, brace your feet, and lean away from the direction that you are tipping. Tipping a forklift over is in fact much easier than you think. All it takes to tip a forklift is often a small ramp or sloped surface. In fact, if you are driving on a 10% grade or more you will need to keep your load uphill, even though this means driving backwards. Also know that forklifts shouldn't be compared to your automobile.
A forklift is significantly heavier than your car and will not stop as fast. When driving your new or used lift truck it is best to be focused in the direction you are moving, and sound your horn at any intersection. In case you are the driver of a forklift always check the condition of your forklift every time you get into it. Some of the things to watch out for are fuel leaks, spongy brake pedals, and unusually strong exhaust fumes. If you find fault in any of these things your forklift may need to be serviced. Proper maintenance and safety training is important for every forklift operator.
