Choosing a Lift Truck Manufacturer for Enhanced Safety

When it comes to operating lift trucks, safety should always be the top priority. Lift truck-related accidents can result in serious injuries or even fatalities, making it essential to choose a lift truck manufacturer that prioritizes safety in their equipment design. In this blog post, we will discuss important features to consider when purchasing lift trucks that minimize the risk of accidents. These features include programmable ground speed control, automatic slowdown, operator presence system, seatbelt interlock, multiple access points for sounding the truck horn, System of Active Stability (SAS), Active Mast Control, and built with UL certification.

Programmable Ground Speed Control:
One crucial feature to look for in a lift truck is programmable ground speed control. This feature is standard with some manufacturers and optional with others and allows management to set maximum speed limits based on the specific working environment. By limiting the truck’s speed, you can reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by excessive speed, especially in areas with limited visibility or congested spaces.

Automatic Speed Control:
Lift trucks equipped with automatic speed control can provide an added layer of safety. This feature detects sharp turns or excessive steering and automatically decelerates the truck’s speed. By reducing the risk of tip-overs during sharp turns, this feature helps prevent accidents and protects both the operator and the load being transported.

Operator Presence System:
An operator presence system is a crucial safety feature that ensures the operator is in a safe position before allowing the hydraulic functions of the lift truck to be operable. This system typically utilizes sensors or switches to detect the presence of the operator on the seat or designated standing position.

Multiple Access Points for Sounding the Truck Horn:
Clear and effective communication between the lift truck operator and pedestrians is vital. Lift trucks equipped with a rear overhead guard mounted handle with horn allows the operator to safely drive in reverse (load trailing position) while keeping their hands safely positioned on the steering wheel and within the confines of the lift truck. This allows operators to quickly alert pedestrians or other workers of their presence, minimizing the risk of collisions and ensuring a safer working environment.

System of Active Stability (SAS):
The System of Active Stability (SAS) is an advanced feature that continuously monitors various functions of the lift truck. It detects potential instability, such as tip-overs or lateral overturns, and automatically locks the steer axle articulation when unsafe conditions are detected. By actively maintaining stability, SAS significantly reduces the risk of accidents caused by tipping or rollovers.

Active Mast Control:
Active Mast Control is a feature that assists operators in picking up and depositing loads safely. It automatically returns the mast tilt position to a vertical or neutral state, providing stability and reducing the likelihood of load shifts during lifting or lowering operations. This feature improves safety and minimizes the risk of accidents caused by load instability.

UL Certification:
When choosing a lift truck manufacturer, it is essential to ensure that their equipment is UL certified. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification is an industry-recognized standard that verifies the safety and reliability of the equipment. It demonstrates that the lift truck has undergone rigorous testing and meets the necessary safety standards, providing peace of mind and assurance of a high level of safety.

Selecting a lift truck manufacturer that prioritizes safety features is crucial to minimize the risk of lift truck-related accidents. By considering these features and choosing a reputable manufacturer, you can create a safer work environment and protect both operators and those working in close proximity to the lift truck.