Forklift Test

Forklift Test – Forklifts are speciality vehicles with two prongs, used for lifting and carrying heavy loads. They are often used on construction sites, at manufacturing companies, and in warehouses. Given their multiple benefits, forklift operators continue to be in demand. 

Per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”), however, any employee who operates a forklift must be trained and pass a forklift test on how to operate a forklift, understand a forklift’s capacity, and know the process of inspecting this machinery. Moreover, if there has been an accident, an employee is found to not be operating a forklift properly, or there is a near miss, then a forklift refresher training is recommended. 

At American Forklift Training Centers, Inc., we provide both forklift and refresher training and certification – as we understand the importance of providing proper training to avoid falling loads, damaging equipment, accidents, and fatalities.

Additionally, to prepare you for a forklift test, we have gathered a few key points to note:

1. Forklift Safety
   1. When operating a forklift, make sure to be alert at all times, as the majority of forklift accidents are caused by not paying attention.
   2. Do not horse around with a forklift, as the consequences can be detrimental – this includes not having more than one person ride the equipment at a time.  
   3. If you find yourself in a forklift and it begins to turn over, the best thing to do is stay put. 
   4. A forklift’s overhead guard helps protect the operator from falling items.
2. Starting Your Shift – Forklift Pre-Operations
   1. Prior to operating a forklift, conduct a pre-operation inspection to help increase the longevity of your forklift and decrease accidents due to component failure.
   2. Your forklift safety checklist should include checking oil and fuel levels, load capacity, brakes, lights, and horn. For instance, if the brake pedals go down all the way when pressed, that’s a sign that something isn’t operating correctly.
   3. If you need to know any particulars about a forklift, look at the information plate.
   4. If you find something isn’t working correctly on your forklift during a pre-operating checklist, notify your supervisor immediately.
3. Forklift Operations
   1. Operate the forklift smoothly at all time. 
   2. Do not drive at high speeds, as forklift can turn over easily.
   3. Always maintain a safe distance. 
   4. Check to make sure there is overhead clearance.
   5. Know your blind spots.
   6. When moving the forklift in reverse, operate the reverse alarm.
   7. When traveling through intersections, use the horn. 
   8. When going up grades of more than 10 degrees, keep in mind that the forklift will always travel forward.
4. Carrying & Stacking Loads
   1. Prior to moving a load, put up warning signs and look for possible hazards. 
   2. Once the forklift is loaded, keep in mind that the the center of gravity shifts towards the front, therefore, ensure the weight distribution is correct, to avoid tipping over. 
   3. When traveling up a ramp, face the load uphill.
   4. Never exceed the load capacity of your forklift, even if you have room to add more.
   5. Never lower or raise a load around other workers, even when they are alerted.
   6. When stacking a load, to help maintain control, watch that the load doesn’t catch on anything. 
5. Refueling or Recharging
   1. When refueling or recharging a forklift, park the forklift in the designated area and do not block doorways. 
   2. When refueling the forklift, ensure there is adequate ventilation and no smoking.
6. Ending Your Shift – Forklift Post-Operations
   1. At the end of your shift, park your forklift in a safe place. 
   2. Place all controls to neutral.
   3. Lower the fork to the floor.
   4. Set the parking brake. 
   5. Turn off the engine and do not remove the keys.
   6. Complete a daily operator report.

To learn more about forklift operations, certification, and pass your forklift test – contact us today.