Getting Aboard the Lift truck
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the key problem for keeping operator's safety, even though this is often overlooked. Like for instance, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a contestant perfectly carried out the course at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so thrilled, that he jumped off of his machine and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. He failed to 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 factor to be covered in training. Additionally, having drivers wear their seatbelts could potentially save their lives in the event of a tip-over. It is truly necessary to understand that if the center of gravity of a loaded forklift moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation could happen. Skilled operators seldom ever run into a tip-over situation, however, it is extremely important that they are ready for that risk in case it happens.
Mount/Dismount
Mounting and dismounting of lift trucks is important for ensuring the operator stays safe. This is also important even on low platform pallet jacks. There are way too many injuries sustained from utilizing these machines. Several of the serious situations consist of: Operator's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and could end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the driver could sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator could break an arm accidentally when falling and slipping off of the pallet jack. The driver can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris while 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 1 foot and 2 hands or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is exactly like climbing up or down a ladder. Remember to always face the machinery. Drivers often tend to face away from the machine or to hop or jump off the machinery and these mistakes greatly lessen the overall possibility being injured.
For a lot of companies, Taylors counterbalance forklifts offer a great solution. They are able to withstand a variety of environments and conditions and are extremely durable. They are reliable and built to last.