MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO DRIVE- Page 17

Be a Safe Driver

31   Be a Safe Driver

MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO DRIVE

•

Do not use this truck unless you are trained
and certified.

• Be certain you understand how your truck works and

the hazards that go with it.  Don't drive the truck if you
have any doubts.

• Know the capacity of your truck (Load Weight, Load 

Center and Lift Height).  Make certain you use the 
correct units of measure.

• Some trucks are not allowed in areas where there are

fire hazards.  Be certain your truck is the correct fire
safety type for the area.

• Make sure your hands and shoes are clean and dry, and

your clothing is proper for the job.

MAKE SURE YOUR TRUCK IS READY

• Inspect your truck before using it (see pages 29 and 30).
  If it's not working right, or something is broken, report

the problem.  Don't use the truck.

• In an open area, test the braking and plugging.  Check

at a slow travel speed first, then a faster one.  Know
the distance it takes to stop before you start work.

The most

important

component

is you.

DRIVE CAUTIOUSLY, BE ALERT

• Never stick an arm, foot or any part of your body outside

the operator area, no matter how slow the truck is 
moving.  A hand or foot caught between the truck and 
a fixed object will be crushed or even cut off.

• Keep your hands on the controls.

• Travel in the direction that gives you the best view. Look

where you are going and slow down in congested areas.

• Slow down for wet or slippery floors.  Don't run over 

things.

• Travel with the platform close to the ground when 

outside of an aisle.  Place the load against the vertical 
face of the forks.

• Be certain forks and load are in the travel position.

• Look where you are going before you change direction

of travel.  Slow down when making turns.

• See that you have room to drive and turn.  Check for 

overhead objects.  Watch out for power unit and fork

   (load) swing

• Make certain the load will clear the operator platform

before you use Traverse/Sideshift or Pivot.

• Avoid sudden movement of controls.  Learn to use them

smoothly at a moderate, even rate.

• Check clearances before raising or lowering the forks 

or load.  Watch for overhead obstructions.

• Be extra careful if you must use your truck in an area

where there is a risk of falling objects.

Continued next page...

Be a Safe Driver   32