701 - Forklift Operations
- Forklifts and similar material handlers shall only be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Forks shall not be used to support platforms or other job-made structures not specifically allowed by the manufacturer.
- When forklifts are driven in and out of trucks or trailers during loading or unloading operations, the trucks and trailers shall have the brakes applied and adequate wheel chocks in place to prevent the truck/trailer from moving. Chocks are not required if the vehicle is secured at a loading dock by a device that is designed to prevent vehicle movement. When forklifts are driven in and out of a semitrailer that is not coupled to a tractor, supports may be needed to prevent the trailer from upending or the corners from tipping.
- Only qualified operators shall be permitted to operate a forklift, and only the operator shall ride on the forklift.
- Hard hats are not required to be worn when operating an industrial forklift, provided the fork-li feet is equipped with a means of protecting the operator from overhead hazards. A hard hat shall be available on the forklift for wear by the operator when required.
- The loads handled by a forklift shall not exceed the rated capacity.
- Keep the forks down when the forklift is moving. You should not operate your forklift with the forks raised above minimum height to clear obstructions.
- If a load is too high or too wide to see around, operate the forklift in reverse.
- When parking a forklift or leaving the cab, lower the forks to the ground, set the parking brake and remove the keys.
- Back down a ramp or incline. Always use low gear and never turn sideways on an incline.
- Forklifts shall have an audible alarm or beacon to indicate the vehicle is in reverse gear.
- A designated person shall provide guidance to help direct movement in congested areas or where obstructions exist.
- Refer to NMP-MA-008 SNC Materials Handling Program and NMP-MA-008-002 SNC Materials Handling Program Materials Transport for additional information on forklift use.