Forklift operation - correct driving and steering

It is not without reason that operating a forklift requires obtaining appropriate qualifications. Such vehicles often move along narrow corridors between warehouse racks or within a production plant, with heavy loads on their forks. Therefore, high precision of movement is needed - so that the movement takes place smoothly and safely. So what does forklift driving look like in practice and what does the operator have to take care of on a daily basis? We explain.

Forklift operating licenses – why are they needed?

A person who observes the movement of a forklift from the side may think that driving such a vehicle is not very complicated. However, in reality There are many risks associated with operating forklifts. An inexperienced operator who, for example, turns too sharply or drives too fast may result in a serious accident. Apart from that Performing forklift maneuvers is a very demanding task - a person without appropriate preparation will not be able to handle, for example, picking up goods from a high shelf.

Therefore UDT license to operate forklifts are obligatory. Anyone who wants to drive such vehicles must complete a forklift operation course. 

There are three classes of permissions. The highest one is I WJO, which allows the operation of specialized forklifts, as well as reach trucks and models with a variable boom. They are granted for 5 years. Category II WJO and III WJO authorizations have narrower scopes and are granted for 10 years.

Read also: Forklifts in high storage halls

Forklift operating instructions – what should you do before starting work?

Before an operator starts driving a forklift, he or she must perform several important activities to ensure that the vehicle is fully operational and ready for operation. This is why Daily operation of a forklift includes:

  • visual inspection of the vehicle's condition - the operator should check for any visible damage or leaks; if he notices any irregularities, he should contact the equipment maintainer or service;
  • checking fluid levels in the vehicle - e.g. coolant, brake fluid or engine oil;
  • checking the fuel level/battery charge - depending on whether you are operating an electric or combustion forklift;
  • making sure that the brakes and clutch work without any problems and that there is no play in the gear lever;
  • checking the correct operation of lighting, turn signals and sound signals.

Finally, the operator should correctly adjust his seat - so that the seat provides him with comfort while performing his duties. These few minutes may determine the safety of your subsequent work. At the end Before driving a forklift, fasten your seat belts. Only then can you start the vehicle and start performing the assigned tasks.

driving a forklift
Driving a forklift requires concentration, precision and skillful maneuvering. Therefore, there is no way to do without a qualification course.

Safe operation of a forklift – what should you remember?

Driving a forklift is significantly diffelease from operating a car. This is, among other things, because material handling vehicles always have swivel rear wheels and the way they are maneuvered is diffelease than in cars.

It is worth remembering that Driving a forklift requires compliance with speed limits. They are much more restrictive than when traveling on roads - they are: 

  • 18 km/h on straight sections of the route, 
  • 12 km/h when driving near production halls and other plant areas, 
  • 6 km/h in factory halls,
  • 3 km/h in areas where there is pedestrian traffic and visibility is limited.

However, this is not the only rule that you need to remember when controlling the stroller. Equally important are the following issues:

  • correct placement of the forks - the transport position is 10-20 cm above the ground, with the mast tilted back;
  • move carefully on slopes - especially when starting, remember to press the service brake, unlock the parking brake and then gradually release the first one;
  • constantly keeping your hands on the steering wheel of the vehicle;
  • not exceeding the permissible weight and dimensions of the load transported on the forks;
  • maintaining the center of gravity of the load in a centered position.

All these things can be learned during a course that will allow you to obtain a permit to operate a forklift, as well as... in practice. The more experience in driving forklifts, the better the operator's skills.

A lot may also depend on the equipment itself - Daily operation of a good quality forklift is more comfortable for the operator. Therefore, it is worth investing in good quality devices. You can obtain them, e.g. by deciding on forklift leaseal in Gizo. Find out more about this service – contact with our experts!

Also check: Forklift leaseal – what to pay attention to when leaseing a forklift?