Forklifts play an important part in the distribution of goods. They are capable of efficiently moving product through the distribution process. However, they should be used carefully. Improper operation of forklifts could cause injury to employees, damage to products, and serious accidents causing death.

Safety
If you use a forklift properly, it is rather safe. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents on an annual basis. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents involving forklifts. The tragedy is that most of these accidents are avoidable with correct training and attention to safety.

Kinds of Machinery
Depending on the specific kind of forklift that will be used on the job, the forklift operator should be trained. A popular type utilized within distribution centers and warehouses is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts normally utilized within industry consist of operator up units, rough terrain units and narrow aisle trucks.

Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification that includes both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators must become recertified.

Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a conventional forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in several units. The load capacity of a forklift depends on the unit and its options and attachments.

History
Yale and Clark, the top companies in the global forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Ever since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through a lot of technological advances, mostly leading to improvements in operator safety and the safe and efficient movement of product.