Forklift Controls
One of the most common pieces of machinery you would see inside any warehouse is a forklift. These versatile machines are comprised of a vehicle with two split forks at the front which could haul and carry heavy items.
Forklifts can maneuver in small spaces and capable of lifting objects into up high, hard to reach places. Forklifts are still extremely dangerous equipment and should be operated in a safe manner at all times, after proper training and certification has taken place.
When new to a forklift, take time to read the owner's instruction manual and familiarize yourself with the controls. Be sure to take note of the location of each specific control and what specific feature it functions. Nearly all forklifts have two levers which control the forks. The first lever controls the fork height. In order to make the forks go down, you push the lever forward. To be able to move the forks upwards, you just pull back on the lever.
There is a second lever which controls the tilt of the forks. This tilting capability enables for better distribution of weight. This tilting action helps to keep items stable and won't allow things to fall off when driving. Additionally, it helps things slide off in a more balanced method when unloading.
By pulling the second lever back, the forks would tilt back, when pushing the lever forward will tilt the forks forward. Some forklift models are equipped with a third lever which controls the width of the forks. Every one of these levers is located just to the right of the operator's seat.
Inexperienced operators should take advantage of qualified coworkers who can go over the controls with them. Be sure to do this while the forklift is turned off and not in use. Ask the trained expert if you have any questions regarding how something functions.
Watch how the coworker demonstrates the function of each of the controls. Observation is often the best way to learn a new skill. On hydrostatic lift trucks, notice that to be able to make the equipment go, you utilize the gas. And if you want to make it stop, you simply release the gas pedal. There is no brake on these types of forklifts. There are several hydrostatic models which are complete with battery powered engines which shut off when the gas pedal is released. They start up when the gas pedal is pushed again.