What are the safety operation procedures for forklifts?

Forklift safe operating procedures are the core guidelines to ensure the safety of operators, equipment, and goods, covering four key stages: pre-operation inspection, driving operation, loading and unloading operation, and parking and shutdown. The specific requirements are as follows:

Pre-operation Preparation and Inspection

Operators must hold a valid forklift driving license to work, and unlicensed operation is strictly prohibited. Wear safety helmets, non-slip shoes, and other protective equipment before starting work.

Perform a walk-around inspection: Check that the tire pressure is normal and free of damage; the forks are free of deformation and cracks, and the limit devices are intact; the lights, horn, reverse alarm, and braking system are sensitive and effective; fuel/electricity is sufficient, and the hydraulic system has no leakage.

Before starting the forklift, lift the forks to a height of 10–20 cm from the ground, confirm that the gear is in neutral, the handbrake is fully engaged, and then start the engine or power supply.

Operating forklifts under the influence of alcohol, fatigue, or illness is prohibited. Horseplay during operation is strictly forbidden.

Safety Norms During Driving

The driving speed in the workplace shall not exceed 5 km/h. Slow down and sound the horn when turning, at intersections, or in crowded areas, and proceed only after confirming safety.

Keep the forks in a low position and the mast tilted backward during driving to prevent goods from shaking and falling. Carrying passengers is strictly prohibited, and no body parts are allowed to extend out of the cab.

Turning or driving across ramps is prohibited. Drive forward when going uphill and reverse when going downhill; coasting in neutral is strictly forbidden throughout the process.

Avoid pedestrians and other equipment, maintaining a safe distance of at least 1.5 meters. Do not stand on the forks for operation, and do not use the forks to lift personnel for high-altitude work.

Operating Guidelines for Loading and Unloading Goods

When picking up goods, first adjust the distance between the forks to match the width of the goods, slowly drive into the bottom of the pallet, and lift the goods only after the forks are fully inserted into the pallet.

Lift goods smoothly, avoiding sudden lifting or lowering. After lifting the goods, tilt the mast backward to make the goods lean against the mast tightly to prevent slipping. When carrying oversized goods, ensure a clear field of vision, and arrange a dedicated person to direct if necessary.

Overloading is strictly prohibited; strictly follow the rated load capacity of the forklift. The center of gravity of the goods shall be located at the center of the forks, as unbalanced loading may cause the forklift to tip over.

When unloading goods, slowly drive to the unloading point, steadily lower the forks until they touch the ground, and then pull out the forks. Do not leave the forklift when the forks are suspended.

Requirements for Parking and Shutdown

When parking, choose a flat and firm surface, fully engage the handbrake, and shift the gear to neutral; lower the forks to the ground and tilt the mast forward to its original position.

Turn off the engine or cut off the power supply and remove the key. If parking unexpectedly on a ramp, use wheel chocks to wedge the wheels to prevent slipping.

After operation, clean the forklift, check for faults or damage, and complete the shift handover record.