Forklift Operating Instructions

General

Only authorized drivers are permitted to operate forklifts.
- To be authorized, Forklift Certified Training must be completed.
Operate forklifts only in designated areas.
Operate gas-powered forklifts only in adequately ventilated areas.
- Do not operate a forklift if there is a leak in the fuel system.
Do not stand, pass, or work under raised forks.
Do not use a forklift to tow or push other vehicles or equipment.

Always wear seatbelts.
Do not engage in stunt driving or horseplay.
Do not allow employees or guests to ride on the forks.
Do not carry passengers, except where seats are provided.
Keep arms, legs, and other body parts inside the cab structure, except when signaling for turns or stops when appropriate.
Do not exit from a moving forklift.
Do not exceed safe speeds (normally 5 mph indoors and 15 mph outdoors).
Stay at least three vehicle lengths back when following another vehicle.
Observe all traffic regulations.
Yield to pedestrians.
Do not pass vehicles traveling in the same direction at intersections, blind spots, or dangerous locations.
Slow down and sound horn at cross aisles and other areas where vision is obstructed.
Look in the direction of travel.
Do not move the vehicle until the way is clear, including overhead.
Do not drive the vehicle up to anyone standing in front of an object.
Maintain the forks as low as possible when traveling.
Do not exceed the floor load rating.

Ascend and descend grades slowly.
When ascending or descending grades greater than 10%, drive with the load upgrade.
Tilt loads on grades.
- Raise the forks only as high as necessary to clear the road surface.

When leaving the forklift unattended, lower the mast, turn off the engine, and set the brakes.
Block the wheels if the forklift is left on an incline.
- Note that the engine may be left running if the operator is within visual range of the forklift.

Do not exceed the forklift's rated capacity.
Know the weight of the load.
- Do not counterweight.
Do not move the vehicle until the load is safe and secure.
If the load obstructs the view, drive in reverse.
Use care when tilting loads.
Do not tilt the load forward.
Limit backward tilt only to stabilize the load.
Ensure the load is securely held or supported.
Take special care when carrying loads on trucks equipped with attachments.
If loads are lifted by two or more trucks, ensure that the total weight of the load does not exceed the combined rated lifting capacity of the trucks.

For forklifts powered by internal combustion engines operated indoors, ensure adequate ventilation.
In areas with flammable gases, use only forklifts with the appropriate classification.
Sound the horn when approaching intersections, pedestrians, doors, corners, or anywhere vision is blocked or impaired.

Refuel gasoline, diesel, and propane forklifts outside only.
Do not smoke or conduct spark-producing activities in any refueling/recharging areas.
Keep a fire extinguisher generally near refueling/recharging areas.