COUNTERBALANCED FORKLIFT TRUCK GENERAL SAFETY STANDARDS (CONT.)
CONCLUSION:
1.) ATTEND OPERATOR TRAINING CLASSES
The forklift operator must clearly understand all instructions concerning the safe operation of the forklift and
all safety rules and regulations of the work site. They must have successfully completed a training course in
accordance with the Powered Industrial Truck Standard (29 CFR 1910.178) as described by the Occupation-
al Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). They must be qualified as to their visual, hearing, physical, and
mental ability to operate the equipment safely. NEVER use drugs or alcohol while operating a forklift! NEVER
operate or allow anyone to operate a forklift when mental alertness or coordination is impaired! An operator
on prescription or over-the-counter drugs must consult a medical professional regarding any side effects of
the medication that may impair their ability to safely operate the forklift.
2.) CREATE A MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
OSHA recommends a maintenance log, listing repairs requested and completed, for each forklift. Also, "lock out
tag procedures" should be utilized. If the forklift malfunctions; park it safely, remove the key, tag "Do Not Use",
and report the problem to the proper authority or authorized service personnel immediately. For the best forklift
performance and operation, a maintenance program is required.
Use the hour meter on the instrument panel to keep maintenance properly scheduled. For repairs on major
components (engine, transmission, etc.), contact your nearest dealer for a Repair Manual. Do not operate a
forklift that is damaged or does not function properly. Only authorized personnel may make repairs or adjust-
ments to the lift truck. After repairs, the lift truck must be tested for safe operation before returning to service.
3.) FORKLIFT KNOWLEDGE
Forklift trucks can cause serious injury if improperly used or maintained. Study all of the manuals provided for
your forklift model. Learn the locations and meanings of all safety decals. If any decals are illegible or missing,
have them replaced immediately. Make sure all safety features provided by the original manufacturer are in
place and function properly. Do not operate a forklift with damaged, missing or unsafe components. Have it
repaired by authorized service personnel. Learn the functions of all controls, gauges, indicator lights, etc. on the
forklift. Know the speed/gear ranges, braking and steering capabilities, load ratings and clearances. When re-
ferring to the location of forklift components, the terms "left", "right", "front", and "rear" are related to the operator
seated normally, facing forward in the operator's seat. If you have any questions about the forklift, consult your
supervisor. Failure to fully understand or obey safety warnings can result in serious injury or death!
4.) WORK SITE KNOWLEDGE
Before operating on a work site, learn the rules for movement of people, forklifts and all other traffic. Check the
size, weight, and condition of the loads you will be expected to handle. Verify that they are properly secured
and safe to transport. Learn where the loads are to be placed, planning your route for a safe approach, watch-
ing for hazardous conditions. Will a signalman be required to help place the load? Remove any debris, which
may cause tire damage or rupture. Plan your route around problem areas or have them corrected. Inform the
supervisor of any unsafe conditions observed at the site. Examples of hazards: power lines, cables, low clear-
ance structures, garage doors, telephone pole guide lines, fencing, loose lumber, building materials, drop-offs,
trenches, rough/soft spots, oil spills, deep mud, steep inclines, railroad tracks, curbs, etc. NEVER approach
power lines, gas lines or other utilities with the forklift! Always verify that local, state/provincial and federal reg-
ulations have been met. Report any accidents involving personnel, building structures, and equipment to the
supervisor immediately. Always remain alert - conditions are constantly changing at the work site!
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
All data provided in this manual is subject to production changes, addition of new models, and improved product de-
signs. If a question arises regarding your forklift, please consult your dealer or Bright Coop Inc. for the latest information.
When ordering service parts or requesting technical information, quote the applicable Model/Serial Number.
Bright Forklift
BD3–7570
General Safety Standards
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