Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training

Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training

Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training Course

Stay Safe When Working With Pallet Jacks

Electric pallet jacks are widely used to lift palletized goods a few inches off the ground to transport them to another location. Although their function is simple, there are many potential hazards to be aware of during operation. That’s why it’s vital that all operators are trained in proper electric pallet jack safety and operating practices.

This pallet jack training course is designed to meet the requirements outlined by OSHA’s Powered Industrial Trucks Standards (1910.178 (l)). By adhering to these standards, operators are instructed in the best electric pallet jack safety practices. This helps reduce the risk of incidents while on the job, keeping operators and surrounding personnel safe.

Electrical pallet jack training topics:

  • Types of pallet jacks
  • Differences between motorized and standard pallet jacks
  • Walk-behind units
  • Ride-on units
  • Safe operating procedures
  • Pre-use inspection & safety checklists
  • Picking a load up
  • Traveling with a load
  • Setting a load down
  • Parking and safe storage

Upon completion of this hands-on training, operators will be able to:

  • Identify the basic controls of a walk-behind and stand-on pallet jack.
  • Explain what to look for when performing a pre-use inspection.
  • Locate and describe how to use various safety features and emergency stop functions.
  • Describe how to safely operate a motorized pallet jack. This includes picking the load up, transporting it, setting it down, and then parking the pallet jack when finished.
  • Recognize common hazards associated with motorized pallet jacks and ways to avoid them.
Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training
Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training
Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training
Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training

Pallet Jack Tips & Best Practices

Electric walkie pallet jacks are versatile and essential tools for various industries, including warehouses, distribution centers, and retail stores. These machines are designed for mid-range runs, unloading deliveries, and stocking products in retail settings. They may not be as powerful as large forklifts, but they can quickly and efficiently move loads weighing thousands of pounds.

However, just like any other industrial equipment, electric walkie pallet jacks require proper handling by trained and certified operators. These machines are not toys, and mishandling them can result in serious injury or property damage.

That’s why it’s crucial to receive expert-led training before operating an electric walkie pallet jack. But even with training, it’s easy to forget some of the safety rules, which is where this article can come in handy.

Here are some safety reminders and insights to keep in mind when operating an electric walkie pallet jack:

  1. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including a hard hat, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. These will protect you from falling objects, flying debris, and crush hazards.
  2. Inspect the equipment before use to ensure that it’s in good condition. Check the brakes, tires, and battery, and report any issues to your supervisor.
  3. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the workplace’s safety procedures when operating the equipment.
  4. Keep a safe distance from pedestrians, other equipment, and obstacles when driving the pallet jack.
  5. Avoid carrying loads that exceed the pallet jack’s capacity, and distribute the load evenly on the forks.
  6. Don’t drive the pallet jack with the forks raised, and never use them as a platform to lift yourself.
  7. Always turn off the machine and set the brakes before exiting it, even for a brief moment.

By following these safety reminders and insights, you can operate an electric walkie pallet jack with confidence and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Remember, the safety of yourself and others should always be the top priority when working with industrial equipment.

Do's and Don'ts - Pallet Jack Safety

Even if you have previously completed training on this class of products, take the time to get familiar with its unique features and design. Equipment features can vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer and assuming all features are the same can be very dangerous. If you have questions bring them to your supervisor and be sure to read the operator manual.

Do’s

  • Know the capacity before operating
  • Familiarize yourself with safety features such as a direction reverse switch “belly button”
  • Keep your speeds low and be ready to stop. Always stop completely before changing directions
  • When hauling loads, walk in front of the walkie and partly to the side, pulling it behind you
  • Unless you have a two-tiered load and a load backrest, you should travel with the load downhill when going up or down slopes

Don’ts

  • No passengers
  • No sudden movements – this can cause spilled loads
  • No sprinting
  • No pushing or towing extra loads

PREPARING FOR ELECTRIC PALLET JACK TRAINING: RIDER WALKIES

Some varieties of electric pallet jacks have a platform available for operators to ride on during longer runs around facilities. These end-controlled riders sometimes have longer forks and can be controlled both on and off the platform. When riding, hold the control tiller in one hand and the grab rail with the other with your front pointed toward the middle of the machine. When walking with the machine, you will still stand to its side and drag it behind you.

Remember: Operator training and certification are both class and application-specific. If you are using familiar products in a new location or work application you must complete training for those specific uses. Every unique workplace can have its own rules and policies for safe operation. Be sure you know these before you using familiar equipment in those locations.

Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training
Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training
OSHA SAFETY TRAINING

Electrical Pallet Jack Safety Training Course

Think Safety Always is dedicated to helping clients achieve a safe workplace. In order to accomplish this goal, a world class occupational safety and health program with onsite training must have total management, leadership, and employee involvement. Safety must be management’s highest priority. Production should never be so urgent that a company cannot take time to perform work safely. No matter where you are located, we bring our training to you, nationwide! We offer both English and Spanish classes.

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