Masonry Magazine August 1994 Page. 35
FORKLIFT SAFETY
Continued from Page 16
At the same speed, traction may be increased. This will also prevent unwanted wind-up of the four-wheel-drive system.
Sometimes more traction can be placed on the front two drive wheels of extended-reach fork lifts by moving the load on the forks forward. Because of the leverage principle we discussed earlier, placing the weight further in front of the axle pivot point puts more weight on the front wheels, allowing them to have better traction.
Make sure that in extending the load in front of the fork lift you do not go beyond the safe limits. Extending the load too far could result in a decrease in stability, forward tipping, and loss of steering control.
When it is necessary to travel on a slope or ramp, always approach it straight. Don't attempt to turn or travel crossways on a slope or hill, since this can cause the vehicle to turn over or slide sideways down the slope during slippery conditions.
Never coast down a slope by taking the transmission out of gear or pushing in on the clutch, since you may lose control of the fork lift. It's a good rule to use the same gear to go down a hill that you used to go up the same hill. This allows the engine compression to help control the speed of the fork lift and saves unnecessary wear of the brakes.
When it's necessary to cross railroad tracks or other similarly rough sections, cross them diagonally, allowing only one wheel at a time to cross the rough spot. This will minimize the amount of jolt transferred to the load.
Ditches, banks, or pits can cave in, taking the fork lift and the operator along. Avoid going close to such hazards.
CARRYING the load low keeps jolts from uneven ground to a minimum.
Extended-reach forklifts have hydraulic power to the boom in both the "in" and "out" directions. This feature can often be used to free the fork lift when it is stuck. The forks can be forced straight into the ground directly in front of the fork lift and then the boom can be extended. This pressure of the boom's being extended forces the fork lift itself backwards and out of the location where it is stuck. Not all fork lifts are designed to be used in this manner to free themselves from a stuck position. Consult the manufacturer's manual for the specific equipment you are operating, or you could damage the fork lift.
It is especially important not to park the fork lift for any extended time in deep mud or water which can freeze around the wheels or forks. The strain on the drive parts or hydraulic system that would be
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MASONRY-JULY/AUGUST, 1994 35