Forklift operation - correct driving and steering

It is not without reason that operating a forklift requires obtaining appropriate authorizations. Such vehicles very often move along narrow corridors between warehouse racks or on the premises of a production plant, with heavy loads on the forks. Therefore, high precision of movement is necessary, which only a forklift operator can have - so that the movement is smooth and safe. So what does driving a forklift look like in practice and what does the operator have to take care of on a daily basis? We explain.

Forklift driving license – why are they needed?

A person who watches a forklift moving from the side may think that driving such a vehicle is not very complicated. However, in reality There are many risks associated with forklift operation. An inexperienced operator who, for example, makes a turn too abruptly or drives too fast can cause a serious accident. In addition, Performing forklift maneuvers is a very demanding task – a person without proper preparation will not be able to handle, for example, picking goods from a high shelf.

Therefore UDT qualifications for operating forklifts are mandatory. Anyone who wants to drive such vehicles must complete a forklift operator course. 

There are three classes of authorizations. The highest is I WJO, which allows the operator to operate wheeled and specialized trucks, as well as high-lift trucks or models with a variable boom. They are granted for 5 years. Authorizations of category II WJO and III WJO have correspondingly narrower scopes and are granted for 10 years.

Read also: Forklifts in high storage halls

Forklift Operator's Manual – What Should You Do Before Starting Work?

Before a forklift driver starts driving, he must perform several important activities – to make sure that the vehicle is fully operational and ready for action. That is why Daily operation of a forklift includes:

  • visual inspection of the vehicle condition – the operator should check for any visible mechanical damage or leaks; if he notices any irregularities, he should contact the equipment maintenance technician 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 an electric or internal combustion forklift is being operated;
  • making sure that the brakes and clutch work properly and that there is no play in the gear lever;
  • checking the correct operation of lighting, direction indicators and sound signals.

Finally, the operator should adjust his seat correctly – so that the seat provides him with comfort during the performance of his duties. These few minutes can decide about the safety of the subsequent work. Finally Before starting to drive a forklift, you must fasten your seat belt. Only then can you start the vehicle and begin performing your assigned tasks.

When using forklift trucks, it is also worth making sure that the document confirming the vehicle's approval is up to date.

driving a forklift
Driving a forklift requires concentration and precision, as well as skillful maneuvering, and it is also important to remember to drive in accordance with safety rules. That is why a course for qualifications is not possible without it.

How to drive a forklift – what should you remember?

Driving a forklift is very diffelease from driving a car. This is because short-range transport vehicles always have steerable rear wheels and the way they are maneuvered is diffelease than in cars. Therefore, learning to drive a forklift is necessary even if we are experienced drivers.

It is worth remembering that Driving a forklift requires compliance with speed limits. They are much more restrictive than when traveling on the roads – these 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 on factory floors,
  • 3 km/h in spaces where there is pedestrian traffic and visibility is limited.

Safe forklift driving is not just about adhering to strict speed limits. Equally important are the following:

  • correct positioning 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 off, remember to press the service brake, unlock the parking brake and then gradually release the first one;
  • keeping your hands on the steering wheel of the vehicle at all times;
  • not exceeding the permissible weight and dimensions of the load transported on the forks;
  • keeping the load's center of gravity centered.

All of these things can be learned on a course that will allow you to gain a license for forklift trucks, as well as... in practice. The more experience in driving trucks, 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. It is therefore worth investing in good quality devices. You can obtain them, for example, 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?