Precautions for Using Diesel forklifts

I. Personnel Qualifications

Certified Operation: Operators must undergo professional training and obtain a special equipment operating certificate (forklift driver's license) before operating. Unauthorized operation is strictly prohibited.

Physical Fitness: Operators must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and free from any conditions that may affect safe operation. Operating under the influence of alcohol, medication, or fatigue is strictly forbidden.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety helmets, protective eyewear, earplugs, protective gloves, and safety shoes must be worn during operation.

II. Pre-Operation Inspection

The following checks must be performed before each use:

Inspection Item Specific Content

Fuel System Adequate fuel level, proper tank sealing, no leaks

Lubrication System Proper oil and lubricant levels

Cooling System Proper coolant level

Tires Correct tire pressure, no wear or damage

Braking System Brakes are responsive and reliable

Steering System Steering is flexible

Lights & Signals Turn signals, brake lights, and horn are functioning

Hydraulic System Proper hydraulic oil level, no leaks

Forks & Mast No damage to chains, mast, or forks; bolts are secure

Work Environment Work area is level and free of obstacles

III. Safety Precautions During Operation

1. Basic Operating Rules

Must operate while seated; standing operation is strictly prohibited.

Steady both hands on the steering wheel, feet firmly on the pedals, and fasten the seatbelt.

Check surroundings before starting; start slowly and smoothly when carrying loads.

2. Safe Driving

Speed Limits: No more than 30 km/h on main roads within the facility; no more than 20 km/h on other roads.

Do not use mobile phones or engage in any distracting behavior while driving.

Strictly prohibit coasting downhill with the engine off.

Do not accelerate or brake suddenly on dangerous sections such as curves, uphill, or downhill slopes.

Slow down when turning and pay attention to vehicle stability to prevent rollovers.

3. Loading & Unloading Safety

Strictly prohibit overloading; the load weight must comply with rated capacity.

Before lifting, confirm the weight, dimensions, and stability of the cargo; the center of gravity must be properly positioned.

Forks should be inserted as deeply as possible under the load; use minimum mast tilt to stabilize the cargo.

Maintain a ground clearance of 300–400 mm for the forks while driving.

Strictly prohibit using forks to lift personnel for elevated work.

When raising or lowering loads, no personnel within a 1-meter radius of the forks.

When the load height obstructs visibility, drive in reverse.

4. Special Precautions

Do not raise forks too high; watch for overhead obstacles.

Do not brake suddenly or make high-speed turns while carrying loads.

Strictly prohibit extending any part of the body into the mast mechanism or between the mast and the chassis.

IV. Refueling Safety Procedures

Special attention must be paid to fire prevention during diesel refueling:

Park and Shut Down: Park the forklift in the designated area and turn off the engine.

PPE: Wear gloves and safety shoes.

Equipment Check: Inspect the fuel dispenser for normal operation and leaks before refueling.

No Open Flames: Smoking, open flames, and phone calls are strictly prohibited within a 10-meter radius of the refueling area.

Prevent Spills: Focus on fuel level changes to prevent overflow; clean up any spills immediately.

Thunderstorm Weather: Refueling is not recommended during rainy or stormy weather to avoid lightning-induced explosions.

Proper Handling: Handle the fuel nozzle gently; do not twist or forcefully stretch the fuel hose.

Post-Refueling: After refueling, drain residual diesel from the hose back into the tank; allow the vehicle to sit for 2 minutes before starting.

V. Daily Maintenance & Care

Clean the vehicle after each day's operation and check/lubricate as needed.

Regularly inspect tires, brakes, steering, and other critical components.

Keep the work environment clean and dry; prevent debris from entering under the vehicle or into air intakes.

Report and repair any abnormalities promptly; do not operate with known defects.

Perform regular professional maintenance and servicing; replace engine oil, filters, and other wear parts on schedule.

VI. End of Operation

Park the forklift in the designated area and engage the parking brake.

Lower the forks to the normal driving position.

Shut off the engine, remove the key, and return all control levers to neutral.

Clear any debris from the vehicle and keep the body clean.