In the distribution of goods business, forklifts play a really vital role. They can efficiently transport product through the distribution process. Then again, they should be used carefully. Incorrect use of forklifts could cause damage to products, injury to workers, and serious accidents that could lead to death.
Safety
Forklifts are quite safe as long as they are utilized properly. Tens of thousands of people are seriously injured in forklifts accidents every year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are avoidable with attention to safety and correct training.
Kinds of Equipment
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific kind of forklift they will be using on the job. A common kind used within warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts commonly used in industry comprise operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.
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 switching employers, operators should 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 beyond 9,000 kilograms are available in some units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its options and attachments.
History
Yale and Clark, the top companies in the worldwide forklift business,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through various technological advances, particularly leading to the efficient and safe movement of product and improvements in operator safety.