If there are heavy items to be moved in your warehouse, a forklift lets you do it quickly and safely. This is why so many companies are eager to locate a forklift dealer to lease or purchase these units. Despite their usefulness, these vehicles are heavy and need to be operated with care to avoid accidents. Here’s some advice on how to use these machines safely.

Do:

Get the proper training.

Like any motorized piece of equipment, a forklift comes with a learning curve. OSHA has requirements that prospective operators must meet to obtain their licenses. They must show an understanding of all parts and controls, as well as demonstrate the ability to steer, brake, and refuel or recharge the vehicle.

Be aware of the surroundings.

Whether you’re driving between storage racks in a stockroom or steering around pallets on an industrial worksite, you need to be aware of your surrounding while operating a forklift. Before moving, always check that you have adequate space and be cognizant of other workers.

Don’t: 

Overload it.

It can be tempting to pack the forklift with as much as you think it can carry. However, you should always go by the recommended load capacity according to the manufacturer. If you’re going around turns, go a little below the advised weight to avoid tipping.

Go too fast.

When most people visit a forklift dealer, it’s because they want to speed up operations up at their worksite. However, too much speed can be dangerous.

While the top speed of most forklifts is around 8 MPH, you should go less than half this speed if there are slippery surfaces, like an auto shop floor with oil residue or outside after a rainstorm. You should also drive slower any time people are nearby.

When you’re looking for a forklift dealer to improve your worksite’s productivity and safety, choose AJ Jersey in South Plainfield, NJ. With 45 years in business and an impressive inventory including top names like Crown®, they provide sales and leases to companies of all sizes throughout New Jersey. They also offer forklift parts and services to keep the units running smoothly. Visit their website to see their inventory, or call (908) 754-7333 to discuss your needs.