In the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a really important role. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. Nevertheless, they must be used safely. Incorrect use of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.
Safety
Forklifts are rather safe as long as they are utilized correctly. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each and every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents that involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are preventable with proper training and attention to safety.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the particular type of forklift they will be utilizing on the job. A popular type utilized in warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts frequently utilized in industry comprise rough terrain units, narrow aisle trucks and operator up units.
Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which includes both classroom study and practical evaluations 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
Standard forklifts have a load capacity of 1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms. Higher load capacities up to and beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift will depend on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Forklifts were first developed by Yale and by Clark, top companies in the international forklift industry. Since the forklift was developed during the 1920s, it has gone through numerous technological advances, mostly leading to improvements in operator safety and the efficient and safe movement of product.