Forklift Safety – Traveling on Inclines
Every year forklift operators are injured or killed due to a tipover on a ramp or incline. Forklift operators should follow certain general rules of the road when traveling on ramps and other inclines.
HAZARDS:
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Danger of a tipover
- Danger of losing the load.
Follow these Precautions to Minimize the Risk While Traveling on Inclines:
Remember!
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While going up the incline with a load:
o Drive forward;
o Forks pointed upgrade; and
o Use a spotter if load blocks the driver’s view.
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While going down the incline with a load:
o Drive in reverse;
o Turn head and face downgrade; and
o Forks pointed up the grade.
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Always look in the direction of travel. Never drive with the load downgrade.
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While going up the incline without a load:
o Drive in reverse;
o Turn head and face upgrade; and
o Forks pointed downgrade.
• Going down the incline without a load:
o Drive forward ;and
o Forks pointed downgrade.
Other Safety Tips to REMEMBER!
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Never turn a forklift on a grade, a ramp or incline. Turn prior to the ramp or incline to place the forks in proper direction.
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Always keep a safe distance from the edge of a ramp.
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Never travel on ramps with slopes or other conditions that exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations.
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Always walk with a pallet truck with or without a load, with the forks pointed downgrade, regardless of direction of travel.
Have another day -‐ by being safe today!
Download flyer: STOTW_34_ForkliftSafety-TravelingonInclines.pdf (146.32 kb)
