What to Look for in an Industrial Lift Truck

Written by: Eisla Sebastian

An industrial lift truck is a piece of equipment that is commonly found in warehouses. They are used to lift and move pallets and heavy loads to and from different locations. Industrial lift trucks come in many different flavors including a warehouse forklift, a power pallet truck, and a hand pallet truck.

Regardless of the model or type of industrial lift truck that your company buys, you need to make sure that it offers proper ergonomic design, that your workers are properly trained on how to use it, and that they observe the required OSHA safety precautions.

Ergonomics

The ergonomics of an industrial lift truck are going to vary depending on the type of equipment that your company owns. Full-size warehouse forklifts will have ergonomic features built into the seat, the pedals and the control knobs. Hand pallet trucks and power pallet trucks will have ergonomic features built into the handle.

However, the most important aspect of ergonomics is operator comfort. The industrial lift truck must allow operators to perform their work without putting strain on their back, neck, or joints. You need to make sure the machine you're considering allows the operator to quickly and easily adjust the seat, mirrors, and even certain controls. Also, find out if you can add certain extras like arm rests or padded seats to maximize comfort during extended use.

Safety

There are a lot of safety issues that you must keep in mind when operating an industrial lift truck. If you're working with a power pallet truck or a warehouse forklift, then you'll need to wear ear protection, as well as a hard hat, safety goggles, and a reflective vest. The hand pallet truck will require less safety equipment because you operate it by pushing and pulling and will only need safety equipment as required in specific work zones. However, since operators of these lift trucks are using their own strength to maneuver and use these tools, they will need to use proper operating procedures to prevent injuries.

Training

It's important that all of your employees who work with industrial lift trucks get proper training. They will need to learn about what safety equipment to use, how to move the lift, position the lift's forks, and safely raise and lower pallets. This training needs to be offered throughout the year, with refresher courses being offered on an annual basis to ensure everyone is using the equipment properly.

Selecting the right industrial lift truck

To choose the right equipment for your business, you need to look at more than just the cost. First, you'll need to look at how much weight the lift truck will be able to move. This weight capacity needs to fit the maximum weight of the pallets that you work with. As previously mentioned, the truck should provide safe ergonomics for every employee who will operate it.

Next, you will need to look at the lift height of the equipment. Again, this height needs to meet your needs. Finally, you will want to weigh the pros and cons of the various types of lift trucks to find the best size and variety of lifting and carrying jobs for any of your company's tasks.

Find the right industrial lift truck for your business by submitting a free request for quotes form.