Size
Forklifts are able to lift extremely heavy things because they have a counterweight on the back of the lift truck. The huge counterweight provides balance to the forklift so the equipment doesn't tip over when carrying heavy loads. Forklifts are rated according to their load capacity. A small forklift that could lift 1800 kilograms weighs about 4000 kilograms, which is equivalent to two full-size pickup trucks. The biggest forklifts could lift things as heavy as 36,000 kilograms.
Considerations
In utilizing a lift truck, there are a lot of safety issues. For instance, travel in reverse when driving down a ramp. You must also haul a load in reverse if the cargo is bulky and interferes with vision. Operators need to be familiar with how to mount the lift safely using the "three-point stance." This involves placing the right hand on the back of the seat, while gripping the upright of the safety cage utilizing the left hand and putting the left foot on the step. On no account must you jump out of a lift truck even during a tip over. It is actually safer to stay inside the confines of the lift. Any fall or slip on a lift truck could cause serious injuries.
Potential
In many industries, the lift truck is considered an indispensable since they are required to rapidly raise and move things, load and unload products safely and with little to no physical exertion. Pedestrian safety is a primary priority when operating in public spaces. Operators must always give pedestrians the right-of-way. A forklift should never be driven on a highway or on uneven surfaces. The driver must have a seat belt tightly fastened at all times when driving.
Expert Insight
Forklifts are an essential tool for the cultures which either consumes or makes mass-produced products. Forklifts would continue to remain necessary pieces of equipment for businesses. OSHA supervises compliance standards for companies which use forklifts and provides protocols for certifications and licensing. The lift truck Rodeo is an entertainment event intended for operators and other employees that includes an obstacle course and other entertaining spectacles.