Tips on how safely unload pallets with a pallet truck
How to safely unload pallets with a pallet truck
Safely loading and unloading pallets with a pallet truck is extremely important in order to avoid any injuries. So, to protect yourself and others, we have put together some tips on how to safely unload pallets using a pallet truck.
Do not attempt to unload pallets before the pallet truck has come to a complete stop
When you reach the truck, bring the pallet truck to a complete stop and ensure it is facing the load vertically. It is also important for you to line the pallet truck’s forks/arms up with the pallet that needs unloading from the truck and insert them into the pallet. Taking these steps will give you greater control over the equipment and you will be able to see that the material goods being unloaded are securely placed on the pallet jack.
Don’t rush
You need to take your time when operating a pallet truck as material goods can get damaged when they’re being moved. Moreover, driving the pallet truck at too high of a speed will also endanger yourself and other employees if you lose control of the pallet truck and cannot safely stop. When loading goods onto the pallet truck, you should slowly insert the arms until the load is resting against the backrest.
Don’t remove the load from the truck if the arms aren’t correctly inserted into the pallet
If only one pallet truck arm is inserted into the pallet or isn’t inserted far enough (the load should sit against the backrest) then you should not attempt to remove the load and should re-adjust the arms. If you continue to move the load when the arms aren’t correctly inserted, you risk the goods falling which can cause damage and put others at risk.
Don’t forget to check your surroundings
Before reversing in a pallet truck and whilst you’re operating one, you should pay attention to your surroundings and look around you for any obstructions or employees who may be in the way.
Don’t forget to lower the arms and tilt the load backwards
Once you are clear from the truck you are unloading from, you should stop the pallet truck and lower the fork arms and tilt the load backwards. If you do not tilt the load backwards, you risk the goods sliding off of the fork arms.
Don’t reverse further until your path is clear
Before reversing again to drop the load off at the right destination, you should double-check that the path behind you is clear to avoid any accidents. It is also important not to drive the pallet truck too fast as this will pose further risks to damaging goods and harming others.
Never exceed the load limits
You should never exceed the maximum load limit when using a pallet truck as overloading can lead to tipping over, damaging goods, the surrounding area and potentially harming others in the workplace.
You should always take care when operating a pallet truck and follow health and safety precautions. Find out more information on how to use a pallet truck safely or take a look at our other articles on pallet trucks here.
Looking for pallet trucks?
If you’re looking for pallet trucks and pallet racking for your workplace, UK Pallet Racking has got you covered! Take a look at our range here.
What is a hand pallet truck? And how does it work?
A hand pallet truck is designed to lift and transport palletised loads within your warehouse or workspace. For example, our stackers are the perfect solution for quickly moving loads from one area to another with minimal effort. However, effectively using a pallet truck is key to optimising your material handling processes.
Benefits of hand pallet trucks for palletised loads
Hand pallet trucks offer several advantages, making them an essential part of any warehouse operation:
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Increased productivity: A hand pallet truck can quickly lift and move palletised loads, reducing the time and effort required and improving productivity. Suitable pallet truck training also reduces physical strain on your team.
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Reduced risk of injury: Pallet truck training minimises the risk of workplace injuries by teaching operators how to lift and transport loads safely, eliminating the need for manual lifting.
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Improved versatility: Hand pallet trucks can be used in various settings, making them versatile and flexible tools for material handling operations.
Contact us for any further information regarding pallet trucks or any of our other products.