Pre-operation checks

by with No Comment GeneralSafety

Pre-operation check

Today, I want to stress the importance of performing on forklifts before use. Doing a thorough check before operating a forklift is critical to ensuring the safety of everyone in the workplace.

A pre-operation check involves inspecting various parts of the forklift, including brakes, steering, tires, lights, and the horn. Failure to perform these checks can result in serious accidents, causing injury, and damage to property.

Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees are well-trained and follow safety procedures, including performing pre-operation checks on forklifts. Employees must take their responsibility seriously and do their part in maintaining a safe work environment.

So, let’s prioritize safety and always perform pre-operation checks on forklifts. By doing so, we can prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of everyone in the workplace.

If your company does not have one and would like a template, please email me and I will send one to you at 

brianford@safety1stforklifttraining.com

A Forklift Training and Refresher Program For New And Experienced Forklift Operators

by with No Comment Safety

Forklifts are an essential part of many industries, from manufacturing to construction. These machines make it possible to move heavy loads with ease, but they also present significant hazards that require proper training and certification. Whether you’re a new forklift operator or an experienced one, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest training and certification requirements to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Types of Forklifts

There are several types of forklifts, each designed for specific tasks and environments. Some of the most common types include:

Counterbalance Forklifts: These forklifts are the most common type and are designed for lifting and moving loads on flat surfaces.

Reach Forklifts: These forklifts are designed for use in narrow aisles and can lift loads to greater heights than counterbalance forklifts.

Order Picker Forklifts: These forklifts are designed for use in warehouses and are used to pick and place items onto high shelves.

Pallet Jacks: These forklifts are used to move pallets around a warehouse or factory floor.

Certification Requirements

To operate a forklift, you must be properly certified. Certification requirements vary depending on the type of forklift and your location. Generally, you’ll need to complete a training program that covers topics such as safety, operation, and maintenance. You may also need to complete a written and practical exam to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.

Improving Your Skills

Even if you’re an experienced forklift operator, there are always ways to improve your skills. One way to do this is to participate in refresher training programs. These programs are designed to help you brush up on your skills and learn new techniques that can improve your efficiency and safety.

Another way to improve your skills is to practice regularly. This can include practising in different environments, such as on slopes or in tight spaces. You can also practice different types of loads to improve your handling skills.

In conclusion, operating a forklift requires proper training and certification. There are several types of forklifts, each designed for specific tasks and environments. To improve your skills, consider participating in refresher training programs and practising regularly. By doing so, you’ll be able to operate a forklift safely and efficiently, ensuring a productive and safe work environment.

WHAT ARE THE LAWS WHEN USING FORKLIFTS ON PUBLIC ROADS?

by with No Comment Safety

sign with forklift traffic written on it

Perhaps you’ve used a forklift truck for offloading something at the side of the road or you’ve needed to nip across the street in order to pick up a load at the other side. No matter what the reason or how long you were on the road for, you must have the appropriate registration, tax or insurance in place to operate the forklift on a public road, otherwise you could be committing an offence.

So, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you get to grips with the current legislation and laws regarding the use of forklifts on public roads, so that you can avoid any issues or future fines.

What requirements are needed?

If you plan on operating a forklift truck on a public road, then you’ll need to adhere to certain  requirements:

  • The forklift must be registered with the DVLA.
  • It must be taxed and insured for road use.
  • Registration plates must be displayed on the forklift.

These are the rules that apply to all mechanically-propelled vehicles that are being used or kept on public roads,  in accordance with the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994.

Of course, as the operator of the forklift, you must have:

  • A full UK driving license.
  • Passed a forklift operator course.

Keep in mind, certain age restrictions will apply to the operator of the forklift depending on the different weights of the truck when it’s fully laden. Be careful not to assign an operator to a forklift who is technically underage.

The forklift will also need to be fitted with appropriate lighting for use on a public road. For example, if the truck is going to be travelling at under 25 mph then it will need to have an amber beacon that lights up.

What if it’s only being used for a short distance?

It’s wrong to assume that you won’t require any of the above if you’re only travelling a short distance, or you’re simply crossing a road on a regular basis.

When travelling less than 1000 yards, it not be classed as a work truck and therefore will only require more standard licensing and registration, based on a few criteria, including:

  • The weight of the forklift.
  • How it is propelled.

If the total weight of the truck, which includes its load, exceeds 3500kg, then it will be classed as an HGV. If it comes at a weight under 3500kg, it will be classed as a light goods vehicle.

Also, you need to make sure that it complies with the Road Vehicles Regulations, which may require you to apply certain modifications to the truck. If you’re operating an electric-powered forklift then it will need to be taxed under the electric vehicle tax.

What’s required for longer distances?

If you’re going to be travelling less than 1000 yards in one go, your forklift will still need to be licensed and registered.

When it’s being used on public roads for travelling less than 1000 yards between work sites, working on roadworks, or delivering goods between private premises, then it will be classed as a work truck. It will also be excused from the Road Vehicles Regulations for any distance below 1000 yards.

How to register a forklift truck

To register your forklift with the DVLA, you need to ask for a V55/5 form online, which will then be sent to you via the post with an information pack. In order to complete the form, you’ll need proof of insurance, your test certificate, a copy of your driving license, a NOVA form and a number of other documents, which will be outlined on the form.

Keep in mind that what you need to do may change depending on the classification of your forklift, so it’s always best to check with the DVLA first before you start requesting and filling out any documentation.