In the distribution of goods industry, forklifts play a really vital role. They could efficiently move product through the distribution process. However, they should be used safely. Incorrect operation of forklifts can cause damage to products, injury to employees, and serious accidents causing death.

Safety
Forklifts are fairly safe so long as they are utilized properly. Tens of thousands of individuals are seriously injured in forklifts accidents each year. Dozens are killed in workplace accidents which involve forklifts. The tragedy is that the majority of these accidents are avoidable with correct training and attention to safety.

Kinds of Machinery
Forklift operators must be trained on the specific type of forklift they will be using on the job. A common kind used in warehouse and distribution centers is the sit-down model. Other kinds of forklifts commonly used in industry consist of narrow aisle trucks, operator up units and rough terrain units.

Operator Requirements
A forklift operator certification which includes both classroom study and practical evaluations is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The three-year certification is not transferable; if switching employers, operators should become recertified.

Load Capacities
1,800 kilograms to 2,200 kilograms is the load capacity of a standard forklift. Higher load capacities up to and over 9,000 kilograms are available in various units. The load capacity of a forklift will depend on the unit and its attachments and options.

History
Clark and Yale, the top companies in the international forklift industry,were the first to develop forklifts. Since the forklift was developed in the 1920s, it has gone through various technological changes, mostly leading to the safe and efficient movement of product and improvements in operator safety.