Getting Aboard the Forklift
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to keeping operators safe. It is the main problem for keeping operator's safety, even though this is usually ignored. Like for instance, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a participator executed the course perfectly at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his equipment and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. He didn't win the competition because he judges ended up docking marks from his overall score.
The importance of dismounting and mounting lift trucks is a very serious thing to be included in training. Furthermore, having operators wear their seatbelts could potentially save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is truly vital to understand that if the center of gravity of a loaded lift truck moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can occur. Trained drivers rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, however, it is really vital that they are ready for that possibility in case it occurs.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of properly dismounting and mounting any kind of forklift, including even a low platform pallet jack is vital to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries result when complacency happens around these machinery. Some of the serious situations include: Operator's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and can end up falling and wrenching their back. At times, the operator can sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator can accidentally break an arm when falling and slipping off of the pallet jack. The operator could suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris while they are still hanging onto the handhold utilizing one hand.
Having 3 points of contact is essential when dismounting or mounting a lift truck in order to keep you safe. The 3 points could be obtained by 1 foot and 2 hands or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is precisely like climbing up or down a ladder. Don't forget to always face the machinery. Operators normally have a tendency to hop or jump off the machinery or to face away from the machine and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall possibility being injured.
For a lot of businesses, Taylors counterbalance lift trucks provide a great solution. They can withstand a range of environments and conditions and are extremely durable. They are reliable and made to last.