An industrial lift truck is a work transport unit designed to haul heavy loads from one location to another. Lift trucks are usually used in warehouses but are also used in out door locations like lumberyards, piers and airports.
There are two things one needs to remember when buying, using or renting lift trucks in Miami. One is to be sure the unit has the proper ergonomics for the worker. Secondly, they need to be trained in accordance with OSHA regulations.
Ergonomics
The company picks the ergonomic design best fitted for their warehouse needs. Proper ergonomics should be emphasized on the seat, controls and pedals of the truck that operates in a warehouse while hand and power pallet trucks should have proper ergonomic design on their handle.
Ergonomics is all about operator comfort and the more the vehicle is streamlined to the body and its movements, the better the worker feels and the easier the work the operator experiences.
Safety
Safety is the number one rule to remember when using the forklift. The operator must wear safety protection like a hard hat, eye protectors and a shiny reflective suit to be visible to other people especially at night in poorly lit environments. It is best to be oriented to OSHA safety rules and regulations to avoid unnecessary accidents and injuries caused by bad fork lift practices in the workplace.
Training
Large companies usually offer mandatory forklift operation training to personnel in accordance with OSHA requirements. In training, the latter will learn all important safety procedures and proper handling, maneuvering and use of forklifts. Training and refresher courses need to be given at least once a year to ensure quality lift truck operation.
Selecting the right industrial lift truck
There are many factors to consider when buying a forklift. Aside from the cost, which naturally is one primary factor, lift trucks designed to lift the heaviest materials the company needs to bring out from to time, is another factor. One also needs to consider the heaviest material should fit the weight of the pallets.
Another aforementioned factor is the ergonomic factor, which prevents physical ailments from developing due to long hours of lift truck operation. Another element to consider in the selection of your lift trucks is the lift height of the unit. The height reach of the unit needs to conform to your warehouse needs.
If warehouse work is done indoors, the type of engine you need is the electric type engine. The electric engine has zero emission, which is ideal indoors and runs quietly. One also needs to see if a new truck if is needed or a second hand unit will suffice.