In the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a very important role. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they must be used carefully. Improper operation of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe so long as they are utilized properly. 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 the majority of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and proper training.
Kinds of Machines
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific type of forklift they would be utilizing on the job. A common type utilized inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts frequently used in industry include narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.
Operator Requirements
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for forklift operators consist of certification involving both practical evaluations as well as classroom study. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators should become recertified.
Load Capacities
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in some units. The load capacity of a forklift would depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Clark and Yale, the leading companies within the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological changes, particularly leading to the safe and efficient movement of product and improvements in operator safety.