Getting Aboard the Lift truck
The 3-point dismount is amongst the keys to keeping operators safe. It is the key factor for maintaining operator safety, even if this is often ignored. For instance, a few years ago, at a forklift rally, a contestant perfectly executed the course at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his equipment and forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he didn't win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting forklifts is a very serious thing to be covered in training. Moreover, having drivers wear their seatbelts can really save their lives in case of a tip-over. It is truly vital to understand that if a loaded lift truck's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can occur. Trained drivers seldom ever run into a tip-over situation, however, it is really important that they are prepared for that risk in case it occurs.
Mount/Dismount
The importance of correctly dismounting and mounting any kind of forklift, including even a low platform pallet jack is vital to ensuring the driver stays safe. Far too many injuries result when complacency happens around these equipment. Some of the serious situations include: Driver's catching their coveralls or loose clothing when dismounting and could end up falling and wrenching their back. At times, the operator could sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator could break an arm accidentally when slipping and falling off of the pallet jack. The operator could suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris while they are still hanging onto the handhold with one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is essential. Obtaining 3 points can be done with 1 foot and 2 hands or by 2 feet and 1 hand. This stance is exactly like climbing down or up a ladder. Remember to always face the machine. Drivers often tend to jump or hop off the equipment or to face away from the machine and these mistakes really lessen the overall possibility being injured.
Taylor Counter balance lift trucks provide a great solution for a lot of companies. They are extremely durable and could withstand a variety of environments and conditions. They are built to last and dependable.