Forklift Training Guide
Forklift Training Guides For 7 Classes of Forklifts When it comes to forklifts, one size definitely does not fit all. In a single warehouse, there can be as many as four or more different types of vehicles for loading, unloading, storing, and for low, medium and high-level order picking. Each vehicle will have its own forklift guide, which should be kept with the vehicle at all times. There are seven classes of commonly used powered industrial trucks. In the training kit, there are seven individual forklift training guides. Here, we describe each of the seven classes of forklift truck. Within each class, there may be several different subtypes.
The Approved Code of Practice for training operators and Instructors of. If you are using a manual forklift, then the left side foot pedal will be a clutch pedal.
That sounds like a lot of information to learn – and it is! But don’t worry about getting bogged down in the details – FLC’s training modules include forklift study guides to help create a productive learning environment. With our forklift certification study guides, OSHA compliance is right around the corner – and FLC will show you how! Electric versus internal combustion engines The most fundamental difference between any two types of forklift is whether they are powered by electricity or by gasoline or other fuel. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses and its own safety hazards.
One obvious hazard with the internal combustion engine is that it produces toxic fumes, and therefore needs plenty of ventilation to operate. You would not choose a gasoline-powered forklift for a small warehouse in the dead of winter. The forklift guide that comes with the vehicle will contain information about hazards and how to mitigate them. Class I – Electric motor rider trucks Electric forklifts are quiet, clean, compact and easy to maneuver. Their downside? They need to be charged. Unlike a gas or diesel-powered forklift, this requires downtime.
Unlike a laptop computer or a toaster, you can’t run it while it is plugged in. They are used when air quality is important, like a small warehouse or factory. Special safeguards are required when using an electric forklift in an atmosphere where there is a possibility of dust or flammable vapor. Your forklift training guide will indicate what precautions are necessary. Class II – Electric motor narrow aisle trucks Narrow-aisle trucks are desirable when space is at a premium, as in high-density warehouses.
There are also very narrow-aisle, or VNA trucks, which are operable in aisles as narrow as 1.6 meters. Class III – Electric Motor Hand or Hand/Rider Trucks Here, the operator walks or sits in front of the truck and controls it via a steering tiller.
It’s a little like walking a bicycle. Automated and high-lift models are often counterbalanced.
For more details of how to operate this type of forklift, consult your forklift training guide. Class IV – Internal Combustion Engine Trucks – Cushion Tires Cushion tires (aka solid tires) are made out of solid rubber and have a hollow groove running lengthwise on the inner surface. This type of PIT sits lower to the ground than those with a pneumatic tire and are therefore suitable for low clearance operations. Class V – Internal Combustion Engine Trucks – Pneumatic Tires Pneumatic is a fancy way of saying the tires have air in them, like those on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Lift trucks in this class have a large range of capacities and may be seen transporting anything from a single pallet-load to a 40-foot container. The forklift guide with the vehicle will indicate the inflation pressure to use. Class VI – Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors In trucks of this class, the rider sits in the truck and pulls a tow tractor lift.
These trucks are extremely versatile and can be used in a range of conditions. They may be fitted with an internal combustion engine for outdoor use or with a battery-powered electric motor for indoor use.
Class VII – Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks Rough terrain lifts are used in construction, in lumber yards and at auto recyclers. They have huge flotation tires that make them ideal for use on difficult surfaces. GET COMPLETE, COMPREHENSIVE FORKLIFT TRAINING WITH FLC’S FORKLIFT STUDY GUIDES We realize the anxiety that comes with test day. It’s always best to be prepared.
With FLC’s forklift classifications training, you’ll get helpful forklift certification study guides to build your knowledge base about:. OSHA safety standards.
Correct load handling. Recognizing safety hazards.
And much more FLC’s forklift study guide comes standard with all of our training modules. Plus, our courses include:. Step-by-step guides.
Printable templates. Trainer orientation CD. Custom training content for seven different real-world forklift driving scenarios. And more FLC is the best option to get OSHA compliance training.
And with our forklift certification study guide and other helpful tools, you’ll pass your test with flying colors! How to Get Your Hands on a Forklift Training Guide For every forklift operator that is not trained and certified, OSHA may levy a $7,000 fine. In cases of willful neglect, they have been known to slap on ten times that amount. Training your work force with is fast, easy and much more affordable than closing your eyes and hoping they don’t find you. According to OSHA, forklift operators need to be trained on the specific equipment they are expected to use and in the environment where they are going to operate it. Inside the ForkliftCertification.com, you will find seven courses covering the different classes of forklifts, together with written, step-by-step forklift study guides, printable templates for equipment inspection checklists, student handouts, operator cards, certificates of completion, and a hands on evaluation guide and checklist.
If you have any questions about our forklift study guides or training courses, call our OSHA forklift training consultants at (888) 278-8896. Thanks for visiting FLC!
The Ultimate Guide to Forklift Training A forklift is a powerful machine that allows one individual to accurately lift and place large loads with little effort. However, it is essential to avoid an accident in the warehouse and get forklift certified today! Training should always include hands-on experience on the forklift. We’ve compiled this manual to make sure you have the Ultimate Guide to! Step 1: Get a Forklift Certification for any employee who operates a powered industrial truck 1910.178(l)(6).
Visit Certifyme.net today to get your forklift certification without jumping through any hoops! While getting a certification is the first step, it is essential to always be conscious of other factors that may affect the safety of yourself and other co-workers. Step 2: Training Overview Training reduces the risk of accidents and it’s important to get supervised experience on the forklift before using it. All new powered industrial trucks acquired and used by an employer shall meet the design and construction requirements for powered industrial trucks, but employees need to take precautions as well. Employees must utilize common sense and abide by other normal procedures such as checking controls before operating, wearing proper equipment and being conscious of the environment. There’s no replacement for acknowledging safe practices.
Use your best judgment around forklifts and in the warehouse to keep accidents to a minimum. Step 3: Safety Safety is always first! Safety inspection is performed once per day or shift. Start by inspecting the vehicle to make sure nothing is amiss or broken with the forklift. Immediately notify your supervisor if anything is wrong or feels strange. Check the weight of the load by making sure to stay within the forklift’s lifting capacity in order to prevent tipping or breaking the machinery.
Remember, a heavier load will quickly drain the electricity on the battery. Additionally, check pallets and remove any loose items 1910.178(n)(14). Make sure all the loads are secure before operating the vehicle and driving. Lower your forklift’s loads to drive 1910.178(m)(5)(i) As an extra safety precaution, cages on a forklift can protect you 1910.178(m)(9) and will prevent any overhead items from falling on you or injuring you. You can also wear a helmet for additional protection. Step 4: Types of Forklifts There are a variety of forklifts in the industry and its purpose is to always move, carry, pull and push heavy material to a new location. Powered industrial trucks are classified into seven types based on their characteristics.
Osha Forklift Training Guide
Class 1: Electric Motor, Rider, Counter-Balanced Trucks (solid and pneumatic tires) Class 2: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks (solid tires) Class 3: Electric Motor Hand Trucks or Hand/Rider Trucks (solid tires) Class 4: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (solid tires) Class 5: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (pneumatic tires) Class 6: Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors (solid and pneumatic tires). There are no forklifts in this class. Class 7: Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks (pneumatic tires) Step 5: Electric Forklifts vs.
Gas Powered Forklifts There are many pros or cons to driving an electric or gas powered forklift. An electric forklift may need to be frequently charged while a gas forklift has exhaust, which requires plenty of ventilation for indoor warehouses. An electric forklift must have the braked set before it is charged.
1910.178(g)(8) Additionally, an individual with simply a forklift certification cannot charge the electric forklift. Specialized and trained individuals must charge the forklift.
It is important to note that a minimum charge should be 1/2 of capacity or 3/4 for heavy loads. Heavier loads will drain the battery faster. 1910.178(o)(2) With gas forklift there is always a danger of carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire. Adequate ventilation is needed to disburse fumes. It is essential to always have an extinguisher nearby in the event of a fire. Step 6: Evaluating Controls When starting up the, go through a mental checklist to make sure the following items are fully functional:. Is the horn working?
1910.178(n)(4). Check the steering mechanism with the engine running. Evaluate the breaks. Check the seat brake.
Is there any lint, grease, or oil where the forklift can catch on fire?. Check the tires. Check that the clutch disengages the transmission. Check the hydraulic controls-lift and tilt levers before picking up the load Any issues that would affect safety must be fixed before the forklift is returned to service.
Step 7: Driving a Forklift Your forklift isn’t the only thing you have to check! The basic rule for traveling is that you maintain control of your forklift at all times. Make sure that issues beyond the forklift will not affect you such as overheard items or slippery floors. It’s essential to prevent items that the forklift can hit or catch. Never drive blind. 1910.178(n)(3). Be aware of overhead items.
1910.178(m)(8). Never travel with a raised load. 1910.178(n)(7)(iii). Make steady accelerations and decelerations. Make sure you have the enough space.
Be aware of obstacles, both ahead and overhead. 1910.178(m)(8). Be cautious about cable trays.
Move materials only in the designated areas with adequate space. 1910.178(l)(3)(ii)(E). Do not block individuals into a stack. The amount of people in the area. Never engage in horseplay 1910.178(n)(9). Always remove the keys after use.
Be conscious of elevated or descending areas 1910.178(n)(7) Step 8: Checking Loads One of the most important aspects of forklift management is checking the load. Most loads are moved on pallets. Reduce the risk of an accident by always centering the load on the fork and not working within a tight space. The load should always be tilted backwards to prevent the items from falling. Be cautious of loading areas. Be conscientious of the total capacity. 1910.178(o)(2).
Forklift Training Guide
Do not exceed load center. Be aware that fork extenders make the load less stable. Most tipping accidents happen because of the above problems. Step 9: Setting Down A Load After the forklift has driven the load to the designated area, the operator needs to set down the load carefully. Drivers must first set the brake and make sure it does not block any entrances or people.
After the brake is set, tilt the mast back to the vertical, which will keep the items stable and evenly distribute the load weight when set down. The will then slowly lower the load until the pallet is on the floor. Gently lift the forks just to release the pallet and clear the forks by moving backwards. If the load is in a tight location, seek a spotter to help you safely execute this task.
Step 10: Operator Responsibility The forklift operator is in charge with assuring that all forklift movements are conducted safely. A forklift is a powerful tool when used by a well-trained operator. It is easy to become complacent from routine, but it’s up to you to be on top of it! Don’t make bad decisions you could regret later. It is important for use your best judgment and be safe instead of sorry. If you feel that anything is wrong with the forklift or there is a situation you can’t handle notify your supervisor or employer immediately.