At Premier Lift Equipment, safety isn’t an add-on—it’s the foundation of everything we do. Counterbalance forklifts are the workhorses of warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers, moving thousands of pounds of product every day. But as essential as they are, they also present serious risks when not operated correctly.
Whether you’re a new operator or an experienced driver looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide outlines the core safety dos and don’ts that help prevent accidents, reduce downtime, and keep your facility running smoothly.
The Do's of Safe Counterbalance Forklift Operation
✔️ Get Proper Training and Certification
No operator should ever be behind the wheel without approved training. Our certified forklift training programs walk operators through everything—from pre-shift inspections and stability principles to load-handling and real-world driving techniques. Training isn’t just a requirement; it’s your first and best defense against workplace injuries.
✔️ Inspect the Forklift Before Every Shift
A quick inspection can prevent major accidents. Before operating the forklift:
- Check tires for wear or damage
- Test brakes and steering
- Confirm hydraulic functions
- Look for leaks or loose components
If anything seems off, stop and report it immediately. Our service team ensures that every piece of equipment we supply is maintained to the highest standards, but daily checks are still crucial.
✔️ Wear the Right PPE
Personal protective equipment is non-negotiable. Depending on your environment, this includes:
- Hard hats
- Safety glasses
- Hi-vis vests
- Steel-toed boots
PPE protects you from falling objects, blind-corner collisions, and other unexpected hazards.
✔️ Follow Posted Speed Limits
Speed is a major factor in forklift accidents. Stay within posted limits, especially in high-traffic aisles or intersections. Many of our forklifts include programmable speed limiters to help keep operations safe and consistent.
✔️ Maintain a Clear Line of Sight
Good visibility is essential for safe operation:
- Keep the mast lowered when traveling
- Slow down at intersections
- Use the horn to alert pedestrians
- Never drive with an obstructed view—travel in reverse if necessary
Premier Lift Equipment forklifts are engineered for visibility, featuring low-profile masts and spacious operator compartments.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes That Lead to Serious Accidents
✖️ Don’t Operate a Damaged Forklift
If a forklift isn’t functioning perfectly, don’t use it. Even small mechanical issues can compromise load stability or braking performance. Report problems immediately so they can be repaired before the truck returns to service.
✖️ Don’t Carry Passengers
Counterbalance forklifts are designed for one operator—nothing more. Allowing riders is unsafe and violates safety regulations. Our equipment includes single-occupancy cabs for this exact reason.
✖️ Don’t Exceed the Rated Capacity
Overloading a forklift is one of the fastest ways to cause a tip-over. Always check the load capacity plate and stay within safe limits. Many of our models include capacity indicators and stability systems to help operators make safe decisions.
✖️ Don’t Use Your Phone While Operating
Distractions and heavy equipment do not mix. Using a phone—even briefly—can lead to serious accidents. If communication is required, step off the forklift or use an approved hands-free system when provided.
✖️ Don’t Make Sudden or Jerky Movements
Abrupt turns or stops can destabilize the load and the truck. Smooth, controlled motions reduce the risk of tipping and prevent inventory damage. Our forklifts incorporate stability features and low-center-of-gravity designs, but operator technique still matters.
Final Thoughts
At Premier Lift Equipment, safety is built into our equipment, our training, and our culture. By following these essential dos and don’ts, operators can handle counterbalance forklifts confidently and safely—protecting themselves, their coworkers, and the products they move.
👉 Contact Premier Lift Equipment today to schedule training or request a quote.