A novice Forklift driver learning how to pick a load up

We’ll be loading a series of training videos starting with the Novice Counterbalance Forklift Training Course.

To avoid incidents while approaching the load, follow these requirements and recommendations:

Always approach the load slowly and carefully
Stop 6 inches in front of the load
Make sure the truck is placed squarely in front of the load
Make sure the forks are at the correct height for lifting the load
Set the direction control to neutral
Never raise or lower the forks unless the forklift is stopped and the brake is set
Before raising the load, make sure there’s enough overhead clearance. Your vision can be blocked after the load is elevated.
Use the inching pedal to creep the load to the stack.

The mast is the part of the forklift in the front that the actual forklifts ride up and down on.

While you’re moving the mast, take care to avoid tipovers and dropped loads.

To do so, follow these requirements and recommendations:

Always use caution when using the mast to tilt loads
Never tilt the mast forward with forks elevated unless you are picking up a load or putting down a load
When stacking or tiering materials, tilt the mast backward only enough to stabilize the load and no more
When handling loads that are close to the trucks’ maximum load capacity, be cautious, tilt the mast back and position the heaviest part of the load against the carriage, and travel with the mast tilted back to keep the load stable
Use caution when tilting the mast forward while positioning the load onto the stack
Never travel on a forklift with the load tilted forward. This increases the load distance and destabilizes the load.

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Novice Forklift driver learning how to pick a load up