Sufficient clearance
Catching on something is the biggest issue for pallet jacks! Make sure loads are high enough off the ground. Check your route in advance, keep the warehouse clean, and remove anything obstructing the path.
Inclines
Never use non-motorized jacks on or near ramps. Pulling up a ramp risks injuries and could lead you to lose your grip, letting the jack pick up momentum and go off uncontrolled. Pushing could have them roll backward and risk running over you and others.
Pulling the load
Never pull the load! You have to work much harder when pulling the jack and puts considerable strain on your back. Also if you need to stop short, the jack can run into you or cause you to turn in ways that risk muscle pulls, slips, and so on.
Overloading the jack
Know the maximum load limit of the pallet jack you are operating. Never overload! Make sure loads are stacked evenly on the forks before moving the pallet jack. Keep loads as close to the ground as possible.
We recommend:
Test before using
Check your jack daily: make sure the wheels are rolling easily and do not have flat spots. Check the forks before loading to ensure they are not damaged. Make sure there is no fluid leaking from the hydraulic unit. Rotate the handles, raise and lower the jack, and test the controls on the pallet jack to make sure everything is working properly before adding a load. If any defects or issues are found during the inspection do not operate the pallet jack and report immediately.
Always wear gloves and hard-toed boots
As with any job in the warehouse, workers need to have the right wearable safety equipment. Heavy-duty gloves protect in the event of pinching, and boots ensure protection in case an item or the whole jack falls on their foot.
Replace worn wheels and damaged parts immediately
Take a look at our convenient and cost-effective pre-packaged wheel kits.
