Ace Trainers are one of the leading counterbalance forklift training suppliers in Hampshire, due to the realism that we try to stimulate during our courses. Our training includes many different elements to ensure operators are safe and competent whilst using the machinery. One of those being the practice of loading/unloading a lorry bed.
Counterbalance forklifts are often used for moving loads on and from a lorry bed. When loading a lorry with a counterbalance forklift, it is important that you remember the key points to keep yourself and anyone around you safe. In this blog, we are going to cover the main things you should be doing as an operator whilst loading/unloading a lorry with a counterbalance forklift.
Ensure the area is clear:
It is important that you have checked the area you aim to work in for anything that may get in the way such as vehicles, pedestrians, and debris.
Assess the ground you will be working on:
It may also be useful to check the ground/workplace conditions to ensure there are no potholes or slopes that either the forklift or lorry will have to drive on, as this could cause problems with stability.
Check the lorry bed:
You should check the lorry bed for any damage or fatigue, as this is the surface that your palletised loads are going to be placed onto. The lorry bed should be secure and free from any weak points.
Load/Unload as per your training:
Remember that the lorry needs to stay stable, so you must load from alternate sides and consider the weight you will be lifting. If the cab is disconnected, you must ensure stability of the lorry bed by other means.
These points are the basics that must be followed when loading/unloading any type of lorry/vehicle, and they are elaborated during our training courses that can be provided either on your site or at our centre in Basingstoke, Hampshire. You must ensure you are trained to perform any job you intend to do.
For more information, visit our website at https://www.acetrainers.co.uk/counterbalance-forklift/