Within the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a really important part. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Then again, they must be used carefully. Improper use of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
If you utilize a forklift properly, it is rather safe. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are preventable with correct training and attention to safety.
Types of Machinery
Forklift operators must be trained on the particular kind of forklift they would be utilizing on the job. A popular type used inside warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other types of forklifts commonly used within industry include operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that covers both practical evaluations and classroom study is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if changing employers, operators must become recertified.
Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a conventional forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. A forklift's load capacity will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.
History
Forklifts were initially developed by Clark and by Yale, top companies within the worldwide forklift industry. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has undergone many technological changes, mostly leading to improvements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.