Manual pallet jacks are commonly used in workplaces to help move larger and heavier loads. Unlike a forklift, they sit low to the ground. Even though they are low to the ground with less chance of a load falling, there are still safe ways to use a pallet jack. Without pallet jack safe use, there can be serious injuries and property damage.
Without Safe Pallet Jack Operation - Injuries and Damages
Safe pallet jack operation ensures that the loads will be transported free from damage, and no one gets hurt. What makes safe pallet jack use is proper form, speed, environment, paying attention to your surroundings, and smart choices. Here are some examples of what could cause damages and injuries:
- Tight turns, excessive speed, uneven floors or inclines can cause loads to fall over. This can damage your load as well as cause contusions, abrasions, strains, and sprains to employees.
- Running into walls, door jams, columns, shelves or other employees.
- Tripping over exposed pallet jack forks.
- Back strain or shoulder strains from adjusting heavy loads or pulling the pallet jack.
- Pallet jack running over and crushing the feet of the operator or anyone nearby.
How to Safely Operate a Pallet Jack
- Establish and post clear safety rules.
- Know your equipment. Never operate a pallet jack without being fully trained in safe operating procedures.
- Never exceed the load capacity of the pallet jack.
- Consider using a jack that has a brake and/or back-rest especially when moving loads on an incline.
- Wear proper foot and hand protection.
- Proper form-Keep your back strong and straight.
- Always safely store your pallet jack and be aware of your surroundings.
- Use proper lifting procedures when loading, operating and unloading the pallet jack.
- Inspect your pallet jacks regularly to make sure they are in good operating condition.
- Never place feet, hands or any body part underneath a pallet or pallet jack.
- Use a toe guard to reduce injuries to feet from pallet jacks rolling over the operator’s foot.
- No horseplay. Do not ride the equipment or carry riders on your manual pallet jack.
- Push, don’t pull! Pulling puts more strain on the back, shoulders, arms, and legs. The exception is when making small adjustments in the positioning of the load.
- Use a pallet jack stop to prevent the jack from rolling out of control, especially on an incline.
FAQs
Is it Possible to Run Over Your Toes Operating a Pallet Jack?
Yes! It is possible to run over your toes, as well as other’s toes while using a pallet jack. To prevent this, you can order a toe guard to protect your toes, and go slow and be aware of others around you.
What is a Safe Way to Use a Pallet Jack?
There are a few safe ways to use a pallet jack. Go slow, be aware of your surroundings, watch your toes and others around you, use proper body form, inspect your equipment, push and don’t pull, and no playing around on the pallet jack. For more safety precautions, click here.
You can depend on Fast Lift Parts for:
- Quality replacement parts for electric lift trucks and manual pallet jacks
- Free online parts identification tool
- Free technical helpline
- Step-by-step How To Videos
