Getting Aboard the Forklift
The 3-point dismount is one of the keys to maintaining operator safety. It is the key factor for keeping operator's safety, even though this is usually overlooked. For example, a few years ago, at a lift truck rally, a participator executed the course perfectly at a lift truck rally. At the end of his run, he was so excited, that he jumped off of his equipment and totally forgot to make a 3-point dismount. The judges ended up docking marks from his overall score and he didn't win the competition.
The importance of dismounting and mounting lift trucks is a very serious thing to be included in training. In addition, having operators wear their seatbelts can really save their lives in the event of a tip-over. It is vital to understand that if a loaded forklift's center of gravity moves outside of the stability triangle then a tip-over situation can occur. Trained drivers rarely ever run into a tip-over situation, although, it is very essential that they are prepared for that risk in case it occurs.
Mount/Dismount
Mounting and dismounting of forklifts is essential for ensuring the driver stays safe. This is also true even on low platform pallet jacks. There are way too many injuries sustained from using these machines. Some of the serious situations include: Driver's catching their coveralls or loose clothing while dismounting and could end up falling and breaking their back. Sometimes, the operator could sprain or break an ankle when they step off of a lift truck. The operator can break an arm accidentally while falling and slipping off of the pallet jack. The operator can suffer from torn shoulder muscles if they slip on floor debris when they are still hanging onto the handhold using one hand.
So as to keep you safe, having 3 points of contact is essential. Obtaining 3 points can be done with 1 foot and 2 hands or by 1 hand and 2 feet. This stance is exactly like climbing up or down a ladder. Don't forget to face the equipment at all times. Operators often have a tendency to jump or hop off the machine or to face away from the machinery and these mistakes greatly reduce the overall risk of injury to themselves.
For many companies, Taylors counterbalance lift trucks provide a great solution. They are really durable and able to withstand a range of conditions and environments. They are made to last and reliable.