How should a forklift be parked when it is not in use?

The appropriate way to park a forklift when it is not in use is to lower the forks to the ground, position the vehicle in a designated area, and ensure the engine is turned off. This procedure is essential for several reasons.

First, lowering the forks to the ground reduces the risk of accidental injury to personnel. If the forks were left raised, there is a greater chance that someone could walk into them or that the forks could fall, creating a hazardous situation.

Second, parking in a designated area helps maintain order and safety in the work environment. Designated parking areas are typically away from operational zones and are specifically chosen to mitigate risks of collisions with other equipment or personnel.

Lastly, turning off the engine when the forklift is parked conserves fuel and prevents unnecessary emissions. It also eliminates the risk of the machine inadvertently moving due to unintentional acceleration from an idling engine. Together, these actions contribute to a safer operational environment and help establish proper practices for forklift usage.