which of the following are forklift rules of the road

Essential Forklift Rules of the Road

Forklift operations require adherence to strict safety rules to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage. These rules, often referred to as the "rules of the road," are crucial for a safe working environment. They cover everything from pre-operation checks to safe movement, loading, and parking. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides the overarching regulations, and many companies have additional, site-specific policies.

Pre-Operation and General Safety

Before even starting a forklift, the operator is responsible for a thorough pre-operation inspection. This is a daily requirement and helps identify any potential mechanical issues that could lead to an accident. The inspection should include checking:

Tires: Ensure they are in good condition and properly inflated.

Lights and Horn: Test all lights (headlights, brake lights) and the horn to ensure they are working.

Steering and Brakes: Verify that the steering is responsive and the brakes are effective.

Lifting Mechanism: Check the forks, mast, and chains for any visible damage or wear.

Fluid Levels: Inspect hydraulic fluid, engine oil, and coolant levels.

Safety Devices: Confirm that the seatbelt and overhead guard are in place and in good condition.

Beyond the inspection, all operators must be properly trained and certified. OSHA mandates that only trained and authorized personnel can operate a forklift. This training covers safe operation, maintenance, and handling of different types of loads.

Rules for Safe Movement

Once the pre-operation check is complete, the rules for moving the forklift are paramount.

Speed Limits: Always operate the forklift at a safe speed. This is typically a walking pace and should be reduced on wet or uneven surfaces, around blind corners, or in congested areas.

Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians. A good rule of thumb is to maintain at least three forklift lengths of space.

Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians always have the right of way. Operators should be extra cautious in areas with heavy foot traffic, use the horn to alert people of their presence, and make eye contact to ensure they've been seen.

Use the Horn at Intersections and Blind Corners: Sounding the horn is essential for alerting others to the forklift's approach, especially where visibility is limited.

Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden starts, stops, or turns can cause the load to shift or even cause the forklift to tip over. All movements should be smooth and gradual.

Look in the Direction of Travel: Always face the direction of travel. If a load obstructs the view while moving forward, the operator must travel in reverse. This is a non-negotiable safety rule.

Keep the Load Low: While moving, the forks should be kept as low as possible, typically 2 to 4 inches off the ground. This lowers the forklift's center of gravity, which significantly improves stability.

Rules for Loading and Unloading

Proper handling of loads is critical to preventing tip-overs and product damage.

Inspect the Load: Before lifting, check the load for stability and ensure it is properly stacked. If the load is unstable or exceeds the forklift's weight capacity, it should not be moved.

Center the Load: The load should be centered on the forks and positioned as close to the mast as possible to maintain stability.

Never Exceed the Weight Capacity: Every forklift has a rated load capacity listed on its data plate. This capacity must never be exceeded. The capacity can change depending on the mast height and whether an attachment is being used.

Tilting the Mast: When traveling with a load, the operator should tilt the mast back slightly to prevent the load from slipping off the forks.

Raise and Lower the Load Safely: The load should only be raised or lowered when the forklift is stationary and the mast is vertical.

Keep a Clear View: If the load blocks the forward view, the operator must drive in reverse.

Parking and Shutting Down

Proper parking and shutdown procedures are just as important as the operational rules.

Park in Designated Areas: Forklifts should be parked in designated, authorized areas, away from doorways, fire exits, and main traffic lanes.

Lower the Forks: The forks must always be fully lowered to the ground. This prevents a tripping hazard for pedestrians.

Engage the Parking Brake: The parking brake must be set to prevent the forklift from moving.

Neutral Position: The controls should be put in a neutral position.

Turn Off the Engine: The key should be removed from the ignition to prevent unauthorized use.

By following these fundamental "rules of the road," forklift operators can ensure a safe and productive work environment for themselves and their colleagues.