Tips To Improve The Forklift Ergonomics For The Operators

The forklifts are essential part of the working equipment in most construction sites, warehouses, recycling plants, dockyards, production facilities etc. These machines are easy to operate, and don’t require special maintenance. However, like all other heavy-duty machines that deal with heavy loads, the forklifts can have significant impact on the operator’s health. A standard eight-hour shift can be exhausting and can cause several physical strains. For this reason, many suppliers of forklifts in Adelaide offer material handling machines with improved ergonomics for increased comfort.

When diving a forklift, the operator is exposed to constant vibration and bumps. This can cause muscle injuries which are most commonly characterized with discomfort, pain in arms, shoulders, back and neck. For extensive and long operations, the forklifts Adelaide suppliers and experts recommend several tips that you can use in order to ease your or the work of your employers.

Operating tips that can help you to improve the forklift operation:

• Reduce the speed

Most experts, even the forklift manufacturers recommend driving the forklifts slowly when lifting and moving certain loads around the job site. Such careful and slow operation reduces the vibration level to which your body can be exposed. According to the forklifts Adelaide experts, the high speed operations can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

• Rest frequently

  Make pauses, at least on every two hours to stretch your hands, neck and shoulders. Since the nature of the forklift operations include static positions and inactivity, it is highly recommended for you to make short breaks to stretch the parts of your body that are most affected.

• Other useful actions for improving the comfort when operating with forklift

  – Empty your pockets – remove the things such as wallet, mobile phone, etc

  – Adjust the seat according to your body shape

  – Always try to seat in proper position in order to avoid back and neck pains

Today, the forklifts Adelaide suppliers offer material handling machines which are significantly improved in terms of ergonomics and comfort. The new forklift models come with many innovative features and functions, such as :

• CCTV Cameras and Mirrors – for improving the visibility
• Sensors – for more accurate lifting and moving across the job site
• Man-up systems – for improved warehouse efficiency