How to Safely Operate a Pallet Truck
A pallet truck is a useful tool used for transporting not too heavy materials over short distances. They are easy to maneuver and can be used in a variety of situations.
Before using the pallet truck, ensure that the load is secure with a suitable load restraint product. Then, slide the forks into the gaps provided for this purpose and use the truck’s pump-action handle to raise it off the ground.
Lifting and transporting pallets
A pallet truck is a great tool for transporting and lifting loads in warehouses and other commercial environments. However, they are only safe and effective when operated correctly. Injuries often occur when employees lift, move or maneuver pallet trucks incorrectly. These injuries can range from strained muscles to sprains and other musculoskeletal problems.
To avoid these injuries, it’s important that employees receive proper training and understand how to operate a pallet truck safely. Here are some tips to help:
Start by ensuring that the control lever is in neutral before moving the pallet jack. Ensure that the forks are positioned inside the gaps provided by the pallet and are not resting on the edges or top of the pallet. Once the forks are properly positioned, slowly pump the handle to raise them. Then, pause briefly before continuing to check that the load is stable and not exceeding the pallet truck’s load capacity rating.
Some models of pallet jacks have swiveling load wheels, which are helpful when handling wide loads such as paper rolls. These swiveling wheels allow you to maneuver the pallet jack laterally, meaning that you don’t have to lift and lower the forks as much. Also, some models of pallet jacks have angled forks designed to cradle wide loads instead of resting on them, which can reduce the strain on the operator’s back.
Pushing or pulling
Pallet trucks are very simple to operate, but it’s important that all employees who use them receive adequate training to ensure they can operate the device safely and correctly. Pallet trucks have a maximum load capacity that shouldn’t be exceeded, and they should only be used on smooth, level surfaces. In some cases, it may be safer and easier to pull a load rather than push it.
The reason is that pushing is much easier on the body – it takes less effort to control the machine and doesn’t require twisting. Pulling, on the other hand, requires the operator to turn their back and shoulders which puts more pallet truck strain on muscles, particularly if the pallet truck needs to be driven over longer distances.
However, it’s important to note that pushing isn’t always the best option, and this is dependent on the specific circumstances of each situation. For example, if the pallet truck must navigate an incline it’s generally better to pull than push because it allows the operator to see where they are going and check for hazards such as pedestrians. Likewise, if the pallet truck must be moved over uneven ground or in poor weather conditions, it’s usually more difficult to push than pull because the forks are likely to catch on obstacles. This is why it’s essential to choose the right type of pallet truck for your operation.
Safety
When it comes to handling a pallet truck, safety is key. This is why it’s essential that employees receive training on how to operate a pallet truck. It helps to reduce accidents and boost productivity.
Having the proper technique, posture and force can also make your job much easier when using a pallet truck. This can pallet truck reduce back strain, injuries and other problems that could be caused by incorrect use of the equipment.
Pallet trucks can be operated manually or electrically – the difference being that electric models have a hydraulic pump and allow the operator to stand on them whilst they are in motion. These are called electric walkie stackers or counterbalanced walkie stackers and they are ideal for tackling higher loads.
When operating a pallet truck, always keep the handle in a raised position to avoid tripping hazards. It is also important to never ride on it, and ensure that other workers do not do the same. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially on loading docks – the forks can easily get caught in doorways and other obstacles when moving loads.
It’s a good idea to study your route on foot before operating a pallet truck – this allows you to see whether there are any obstructions or hazards that could affect how you move the load. You should also check the wheels and forks of the truck before each use, making sure they are in a working condition.
Training
Pallet trucks are incredibly useful warehouse tools, enabling companies to get more work done in less time. They can also be dangerous if used improperly or without proper training. That’s why it’s important to know the basics of operating a pallet truck before using one. This online course will teach you everything you need to know about these pieces of equipment.
The introductory course will help you understand the different types of pallet trucks, including walk-behind and stand-on models. You will also learn about the controls and safety features of these machines, as well as how to perform a pre-use inspection. Lastly, the course will teach you how to operate the pallet jack safely in various situations, including navigating obstacles and inclines.
Another important part of the job is ensuring that all pallets are stacked in a safe manner. This includes keeping all materials away from the edges of the trailer and avoiding stacking them too high, which could cause them to tip over. Additionally, it’s important to keep a clear path of travel while driving the pallet jack through an intersection or loading dock.
Although they have similar duties, a lift driver’s skills set is slightly different than a pallet jack operator’s. They’re 0.4% more likely to have a Master’s Degree, and they also earn more than their counterparts.