A common sight in warehouses and workspaces, pallet trucks optimise material handling processes. Although they can be operated following basic training, injuries and accidents can still occur if the operator does not have the right guidance.
When used mindfully and maintained well, pallet trucks can last much longer. That is why it is essential to provide operators with the proper training and ensure the pallet trucks are serviced regularly.
Before diving into how pallet trucks can be used safely, let’s look at what they are.
What are pallet trucks?
Pallet trucks are wheeled trolleys designed to lift and transport palletised loads within warehouses and workspaces. They offer a great way to move loads from one point to another, reducing the risk of injury, saving time, lowering costs and improving efficiency.
Knowing how to use a pallet truck efficiently can make all the difference in its durability, reliability and efficiency. By proactively identifying and avoiding common handling errors, operators can get the most out of their pallet trucks.
Avoiding common handling errors.
Operating a hand pallet truck safely is easy if you follow these simple steps.
1. Inspect it before use
Like all other equipment, pallet trucks must be in optimum condition to ensure no issues arise. It is vital to check if the truck is damaged before use. Inspect for signs of wear and tear before operating, check if the hydraulics used to raise and lower the forks are in order, and ensure any issues are serviced in time.
2. Position it correctly
Failure to position the pallet incorrectly could result in accidents. Ensure the pallet is aligned with the truck's forks, as misalignment can cause the contents to fall over entirely. Guide the forks into the pallet gaps carefully, ensuring enough clearance before raising them.
3. Do not overload it
Pallet trucks are designed to carry a specific weight. This maximum capacity, ranging anywhere up to and around 2500kg, should be taken seriously. Overloading a pallet truck could cause it to overbalance and tip over, potentially damaging equipment, surroundings and staff. Have a clear understanding of your pallet truck’s weight capacity before using it and ensure you never exceed the limit.
4. Avoid uneven surfaces
Pallet trucks are designed to be used on even surfaces. When used on uneven terrain, they can tip over and lose their load, potentially damaging personnel and goods. Therefore, you must inspect your surroundings before using the pallet truck.
5. Pull, do not push
Pallet trucks do not need to be pushed. Pulling a loaded pallet truck across flat surfaces enables better manoeuvrability and allows the operator to look ahead for potential hazards.
6. Store it safely
The truck needs to be stored safely after usage. Ensure the load is safely removed and the forks are lowered before storage. Always store the truck in the designated area or position it as close to the wall as possible to ensure the forks do not point into any walkways.
How can we help?
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With over 100 years of material handling expertise, we have the knowledge to help you pick the right pallet trucks for your requirements.
Moreover, our dedicated team of hand pallet truck specialists can repair, service and maintain your pallet trucks for you.
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