AVOID FALLS AND TIPOVERS- Page 20

Be a Safe Driver

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38

AVOID FALLS AND TIPOVERS

• Stay away from the edge of docks and ramps.

• Check that bridgeplates and dockboards are secure.  Be

certain that either the trailer wheels are chocked or the
trailer is locked to the dock.  Check capacities.  Be sure
your truck, with load, isn't too heavy for where you are
driving.

• Make sure the load you are moving is stable.  Spread

the forks as far as you can and center the load.  Insert
the forks as far under the load as you can.  Be even
more careful with long, high or wide loads.  They can
be less stable.

• Use minimum fork tilt to pick up or place a load.  When

lifting or lowering outside a rack, keep the load backrest
vertical or tilted back slightly.

• When moving loads on grades or ramps, drive with

your forks pointed upgrade.  Without a load, drive
with forks downgrade.  Slow down, and don't turn on 
grades or ramps.

LEAVING YOUR TRUCK

• Stop your truck completely before getting off.

• Lower the forks to the floor.  Turn the truck off or push

the Power Disconnect button.

• Avoid parking on inclines.  But if you must, block the 

wheels of your truck.

37   Be a Safe Driver

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WATCH OUT FOR OTHER PEOPLE

• Slow down.  Yield or stop for pedestrians.

Use your horn when you come to a crosswalk
or intersection.

• Be careful that you don't pin or crush someone.

For example: Never drive your truck toward anyone 
standing in front of a fixed object.

• Never allow passengers on your truck.

•  Keep others away from your truck while you're working.
  Don't ever allow anyone on or under the load or forks.

• Don't let anyone use your truck unless they are trained

and certified.

• Never lift anyone with the forks unless they are using 

an approved platform.  Even then use extreme caution:
• Use a securely attached and approved safety platform.
• Make certain lifting mechanism is operating properly.
• Have load backrest vertical (never tilt when elevated).
• Make certain truck is in neutral and brake is applied.
• Lift and lower slowly.
• Watch for overhead obstructions.
• Be sure you can see and hear the person being lifted.
• Never transport anyone on the platform from one 

     location to another.

Be a Safe Driver

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