Getting Aboard the Lift truck
The 3-point dismount is among the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the main factor for keeping operator's safety, even though this is usually overlooked. Like for instance, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant perfectly executed the course at a forklift rally. At the end of his run, he was so thrilled, that he jumped off of his equipment and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he didn't win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting lift trucks is a really serious thing to be included in training. Furthermore, having operators wear their seatbelts can potentially save their lives in the event of a tip-over. It is vital to know that if the center of gravity of a loaded forklift moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation could occur. Trained drivers rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, however, it is very essential that they are prepared for that risk in case it occurs.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of properly dismounting and mounting any type of forklift, including even a low platform pallet jack is essential to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries occur when complacency happens around these machines. Several of the serious situations include: Driver's catching their loose clothing or coveralls when dismounting and could end up falling and wrenching their back. At times, the operator could sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator can accidentally break an arm when slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The driver can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold utilizing one hand.
In order to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is necessary. Obtaining 3 points could be done with 2 hands and 1 foot or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is exactly like climbing up or down a ladder. Remember to face the machine at all times. Operators usually tend to hop or jump off the machinery or to face away from the equipment and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall possibility of injury to themselves.
For lots of businesses, Taylors counterbalance lift trucks offer a great solution. They are able to withstand a range of environments and conditions and are extremely durable. They are built to last and reliable.