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Jun 06 2019
When operating a forklift, safety should be the number one priority. With nearly 96,785 forklift injuries occurring each year, it’s important to refresh on safe forklift operating to minimize the risk of injuries or damage to facilities. At LiftOne, we’re committed to keeping you and your team safe and encourage sharing the following safety tips with operators at your facility.
Trained on how to refuel or charge the battery
When changing an electric battery:
• Use the proper handling equipment and racks.
• Reference the truck data plate for the appropriate battery size and weight.
• Make sure the battery is shimmed to the rear with no more than ½ inch movement in any direction.
When re-charging an electric battery:
• Refer to the SDS Sheet from the battery supplier for the proper PPE. Charging batteries produces hydrogen gas, which is explosive.
• Electrolytes must cover the plate protector before charging.
• Only water the battery when it is fully charged.
• Plug the charger into the battery, not the truck.
• Leave the cover open to ventilate and make sure functioning caps are in place.
When filling or changing an LP tank:
• Make sure there is no smoking or ignition sources within 25 feet.
• Avoid confined areas
• Install the tank with the relief valve at a 12 o’clock position and with the tank bracket pin aligning with the tank hole.
• Inspect the tank. Tanks that are damaged must be replaced. Tanks that are twelve years old must be replaced or requalified.
Know the Capacity and Weight of Forklift
To safely handle loads, operators need to know the capacity and weight of their truck. Operators should never overload the truck with too much weight or too long a load center. They should never exceed the capacity of floors, storage or handling equipment, elevators, cargo vehicles or dock boards, plates, and levelers.
The data plate will specify the capacity and the rated load center that the truck is able to lift safely and any attachment(s) that may be on the truck. It’s important the data plate is inspected prior to use and checked for accuracy.
If you have any questions about forklift operator safety, or would like to have on-site training for your employees, please reach out to LiftOne’s Training Team.