Critical
speed
The speed at which the forklift moves affects its stability. When turning, braking, or
accelerating, the centre of gravity shifts within the triangle of stability. Sharp turns,
sudden braking or accelerating cause the centre of gravity to shift sharply and it may fall
outside the triangle. This is the moment when the stability of the forklift and the load are
not guaranteed and there is a risk of accident.
When manoeuvring reduce the speed of the forklift and avoid turning the steering wheel
sharply.
Do not drive the forklift at a fast speed and then attempt a turn as the forklift may tip over.
Always drive slowly when making a turn and keep the forks low when turning
(fig. 1)
.
Accesses and doors
Make sure that the passages and doors along the route are sufficiently high to allow all
the forklift to pass.
When carrying out lifting manoeuvres, pay special attention to the height of the roof,
lighting and other overhead installations.
Ground
surface
Check that the ground is strong enough to bear the forklift when loaded, especially when
approaching bridges, the edges of embankments, concrete floors elevators, etc.
(fig.
2)
.
Lighting
The forklift working area should be adequately lit to prevent the risk of accident, running
over persons or colliding with obstacles. As soon as the daylight fades, the forklift lighting
system should be switched on. If the forklift is not equipped with lighting, make sure that
the working area is adequately lit. If this is not possible, do not continue working with the
forklift, this may result in an accident.
Loading bay. Communication. Shelving and installations. The load
The loading bay or area where the loads are handled should be correctly equipped
and signposted. The operating area of the forklift should be free of obstacles and
pedestrians, however if their presence is necessary, the pedestrians should move in
areas which have been duly marked as such and they should be easily distinguished,
for example, by wearing reflective jackets.
If the area is closed it should be well-ventilated and the forklift must be equipped
with lighting and exhaust gas purifier systems. The forklift operator should be able to
communicate normally with pedestrians. If the surrounding area is excessively noisy,
pedestrians should refrain from walking in the immediate vicinity. If this is unavoidable,
the utmost care should be taken. Radio communication equipment should not be
handled while driving the forklift. If it is necessary to use the radio, pull over to one side
and signal the position of the forklift, using the lights or hazard warning lights.
Shelving for the loads have a series of marked passageways. The width of these should
be at least the width of the forklift plus 40 in (1 m). If the passageway is two-way, the
width must be sufficient to allow two forklifts to pass plus an additional 55 in (1,5 m).
Before using the forklift to handle loads check the load and ensure that the weight does
not exceed the forklift capacity. At the same time, check that the load is stabilized and
correctly secured, to ensure that no part of the load falls off during transportation.
Order and cleanliness
Carrying out a series of checks before starting the forklift and keeping the operator cab
clean help to make the work safer.
To do so, follow the
MAINTENANCE CHART
given in this Operator’s and Safety
Manual strictly, and keep the operator cab clean and free of earth, gravel, mud, oil or
other objects which may cause falls.
Do not carry objects in the operator cab. These may injure the operator or accidentally
activate the forklift controls.
C 400 H / C 400 HI / C 400 H x4 / C 400 HI x4
C 500 H / C 500 HI / C 500 H x4 / C 500 HI x4
56
(fig. 1)
(fig. 2)
Special
Safety
Messages