In warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, and construction sites, electric and internal combustion forklifts are among the most common and frequently used material handling equipment. While forklift operation may seem straightforward, the actual working environment is complex. Improper operation can easily lead to collisions, overturns, or personal injury accidents. Therefore, mastering operational skills and developing good driving habits are crucial for ensuring workplace safety.

Based on practical experience, this document systematically outlines key safety points for the daily operation of electric and internal combustion forklifts, providing reference for frontline operators.

1. Pre-Operation Inspection: Eliminating Hazards at the Source

Before starting the vehicle, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the forklift, focusing on whether all control devices and safety systems are in normal condition. This includes steering, braking, lifting, lighting, and alarm systems. If any damaged components, malfunctions, or safety hazards are detected, immediate repairs must be performed. Operating with faults is strictly prohibited to prevent accidents caused by equipment issues.

2. Proper Loading: Strictly Prohibit Overloading and Off-Center Loading

Forklift operations must strictly adhere to rated load capacity requirements; overloading is not permitted. When loading cargo, ensure forks are fully inserted beneath the load to achieve even and stable placement. Never lift cargo using a single fork to prevent slippage or vehicle imbalance.

3. Smooth Operation: Coordinate Acceleration, Steering, and Braking

Maintain steady control during startup, turning, driving, and braking. Avoid sudden acceleration, sharp turns, and abrupt stops. On wet, icy, or slippery surfaces, reduce speed well in advance of turns to prevent skidding or loss of control.

4. Driving Posture: Lower Loading Positions Enhance Safety

When transporting loads, maintain forks in a low position and appropriately tilt the mast backward. This improves vehicle stability, lowers the load's center of gravity, and reduces overturn risk.

5. Slope Operations: Strictly Follow Directional Requirements

Exercise extreme caution when operating on slopes. On gradients steeper than 1:10, ascend using forward motion and descend in reverse to ensure the load remains above the slope at all times. Turning is strictly prohibited during slope travel, and loading/unloading operations must not occur to prevent rollover accidents.

6. Strictly Prohibit Carrying Passengers: Eliminate Violations

Forklifts are specialized work equipment and are not designed for carrying passengers. It is strictly forbidden for personnel to stand on the forks, beneath the forks, or walk under the forks. Unrelated individuals must not ride on the forklift, eliminating personal injury risks at the source.

7. Standardized Operation: Correct Operating Position

Forklift operators must always control the vehicle from the driver's seat. Operating the vehicle or attachments from outside the cab or non-designated positions is strictly prohibited to avoid hazards caused by limited visibility or misoperation.

8. Proper Parking: Prevent Accidental Movement and Errors

Upon completing operations or temporarily leaving the vehicle, lower the forks to the ground, shift the gear lever to neutral, turn off the engine, disconnect the power source, and engage the parking brake. When parking on slopes, use wheel chocks to secure the wheels and prevent vehicle movement.

The safe operation of both electric and internal combustion forklifts hinges on standardized procedures and meticulous management. By implementing fundamental requirements—including pre-operation inspections, proper loading techniques, smooth driving, and correct parking—you can significantly reduce accident risks, extend equipment lifespan, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Safety is no trivial matter; standardized operation must be the fundamental principle for every forklift operator.