Purpose:
This Safe Work Practice (SWP) will provide YG employees with a set of guidelines or Dos and Donts that have been developed to mitigate hazards associated with this work task, as identified through your workplace hazard identification process. All YG employees performing this work task are required to be trained, knowledgeable and competent.
Guidelines
DO:
a) Always check the Pallet Jack (manual or electrical) to see that it is in good working condition before attempting to handle a load
b) Notify your supervisor about any fault equipment immediately
c) Always examine the pallet before attempting to move it. Determine that the load is not severely shifted or too tall to go through doorways
d) When pulling loads always watch for overhead obstructions
e) Make sure the Pallet Jack is straight and centered on the pallet
f) Use both hands when jacking up a manual Pallet Jack to prevent muscle strain
g) When pulling the Pallet Jack, make sure it is in the neutral position to reduce fatigue
h) Consider having someone assist you pulling and/or pushing the pallet when the load is heavy, it is being pulled across a wet floor or is on any type of grade
i) Swing wide on corners to avoid striking something, like: door frames, racking, merchandise or any other type of structure
j) Use extra caution when operating Pallet Jack on a grade or when taking a sharp corner
k) Always let Pallet Jack down when stocking product on the sales floor or anytime the Pallet Jack is left unattended
l) Make sure the Pallet Jack is stopped and in the down position before releasing the handle
m) Remember that Pallet Jacks are for work only, and horseplay such as riding the jack is strictly prohibited
n) Ensure operator is using correct manual handling techniques when loading and unloading the pallet/skid by hand
- Ensure your path of travel is clear before moving
p) Consider wearing gloves to protect the hands from sharp edges and handling rough material for extended periods
q) Store pallets in a safe location to avoid causing tripping hazards
Do Not:
a) Do not operate the pallet jack until trained by your supervisor
b) Never attempt to lift a load with one fork
c) Do not bump or hit walls, counters or racks when parking pallets to avoid causing damage
d) Never place your hands or feet under a pallet jack when in a raised position