Warehouse Work: Handling Holiday Loads With Forklifts
The hustle and bustle of the holidays is not limited to last-minute shoppers looking for the perfect gift for everyone on their list. Behind the scenes, warehouse workers are busily trying to pull products for those shoppers in need. Aside from transporting raw materials and durable goods, this involves moving loads of food on pallets from delivery trucks so retailers can keep shelves loaded with the ingredients needed for those holiday festivities.
So, it’s no exaggeration to say that the holidays are among the busiest times of the year for forklift operators. However, even with the extra demands, it is imperative to make sure you’re not trying to do too much too quickly this season. With that in mind, we put together some guidelines for forklift operators and managers to handle the holiday load.
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Climb Aboard
Before getting started with your busy day, take a few minutes to inspect the forklift you’ll be driving. Make sure it’s in good working order; up to date on routine forklift maintenance; that you’re using the right size, length, and width of tines for each job; and that you have any additional attachments you’ll need to ensure operator safety. You’ll also want to make sure you have all the personal protection items you’ll need, such as a mask (even if you’re operating electric forklifts, as the mask will protect you from dust, debris, and airborne particles), safety goggles or glasses, and earplugs. As a personal preference, you may also want to wear gloves.
Loading
During operation of the machine, remember your basic safety information for forklifts. Keep the load as low to the ground as possible (ideally, around 6 to 10 inches) and tilt back the entire load a little to keep it snugly against the base of the fork. Be sure the load is centered before starting to move it, and secure the load with straps or stretch wrap when needed. Do not overload the forklift’s rated capacity and do not over stack pallets or products. Do not raise or lower the load while in motion, and lower the load before parking so the forklift does not tip when you get out.
Moving Loads
When transporting a load, always stay in designated lanes to avoid collisions with other forklifts, bystanders, and standing products and shelving. Always keep at least a 3-foot buffer zone (front, back, and sides) around you and your load as you travel, and drive cautiously. Decrease your speed when going around curves or turns, and always sound your horn when coming to an area with blind spots. If you have other safety instructions from your company on expected rules and regulations while transporting materials, always follow these procedures.
If you need to drive on a slope, turn the load so it is facing toward the uphill part. This may mean you’ll need to drive in reverse when going down a slope, especially with steep inclines/declines. If your view is blocked while transporting a load, never hang out of the forklift to get a better look. You can drive in reverse if you cannot see over your load going forward. You can also either use a spotter to help you navigate, or you can take multiple trips with smaller loads to help improve your line of sight.
The last thing you want to do while transporting a load is to have to make an emergency stop. This could cause the load to shift and potentially tip over, which could damage the load you’re carrying. It can also be dangerous to you or others if the load is not secure and falls or ejects.
Toe The Line
Always wear your seatbelt when operating a forklift and keep your hands and feet inside the operator’s compartment. Avoid distractions—such as eating while operating the lift or checking your phone while driving—and stay alert, especially during the increased activity of the holiday rush. Following safety precautions is definitely important when a number of forklift drivers are operating in the same general area at the same time.
It’s understandable that you may want to move faster when things are extremely busy, but safety should always be top of mind. While cutting corners may help you load and unload in less time, an accident can cause an injury, destroy a product, or damage the forklift. You’re not going to help your employer or your team when you’re not able to contribute due to a setback. Taking a forklift out of service will just make things more hectic.
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Ringing In The New Year
For business owners who may need additional equipment to handle the holiday rush, check out the largest online selection of new and used machines to choose from on our marketplace. We wish everyone in the workforce a very safe and happy holiday.
Barrett Baker
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