How to Operate a Manual Pallet Jack

A manual pallet jack is a great tool for lifting and moving loads around warehouses and distribution centers. They can save companies money on electric vehicles and are easier to maintain than their electric counterparts.

To keep these tools safe for employees to use, follow a few simple procedures. These steps can help prevent crushed toes, trip hazards and scraped knuckles.

Lifting

A manual pallet jack is the perfect piece of equipment for warehouses and other industrial environments. These simple pieces of equipment move the rough wooden platforms known as pallets or skids that contain all the products you see at your local store or warehouse. Using this equipment doesn’t take a rocket scientist degree, but there are some important things to remember before operating one.

First, make sure you have the correct pallet jack for the job. You should also review the jack’s manual or other operator documents for detailed information about your specific make and model. Also, wear appropriate safety gear when operating a pallet jack. For example, some models require you to wear steel-toed boots or other protective footwear. It’s a good idea to wear these because if you take a wrong turn, the handle can come in contact with your feet.

Next, make sure the pallet jack’s hydraulic pump is activated before you start lifting. You can do this by putting the manual pallet jack lever in the neutral position. If you don’t do this, the machine won’t be able to lift the forks off the ground. It’s also a good idea to put the forks in the lowest position when transporting the pallet. This helps to protect the forks from damage and keeps them from damaging your facility’s floors.

If you’re unsure how to operate your particular model, ask your supervisor or another employee for help. They’ll be able to explain the different features of your jack and answer any questions you might have. Then, practice lifting and moving loads with the pallet jack until you’re comfortable with it.

This sturdily constructed manual pallet jack has a load capacity of 5,000 pounds and is equipped with a hydraulic system. Its all-in-one handle design integrates the accelerator, emergency reverse switch, horn, and turtle buttons into a single interface for convenience and efficiency. It also has a 200-degree steering radius for maneuverability and features steer wheels and load rollers to prevent the pallet jack from skidding on your floor.

Moving

A pallet jack is an essential piece of equipment for most warehouse operations. However, the equipment must be handled carefully to prevent injuries to the operator and damage to the load. This is particularly important if the pallet jack is being used on an inclined plane such as a loading ramp.

Before operating the pallet jack, review the machine’s manual and any other operator documents for detailed information about using your specific model. Make sure the jack’s controls are working properly and that the wheels are free of debris. You should also inspect the jack for any signs of mechanical or electrical issues that could affect its safety and performance.

When you’re ready to begin moving the jack, stand behind it and use both hands to hold the control lever manual pallet jack located on the handle. Pump the handle down to raise the pallet jack’s forks off the ground. You’ll then be able to steer the jack to the desired location and use the handle to lower the forks into place underneath or through openings on the pallet you’re transporting.

Remember to keep the forks lowered about 1 inch off the ground, as the load will be much more stable closer to the floor. Also, be mindful of obstacles in the path of travel, such as stray construction materials or electric cords. The last thing you want is to run over those hazards or get them stuck in the jack’s wheels.

Always push the jack rather than pulling it to reduce the possibility of back injuries. Pushing force uses larger, stronger leg muscles instead of smaller, weaker back muscles and keeps the spine in a straighter position. Additionally, pulling the jack can cause it to turn and potentially tip over. Lastly, never drive the jack through a doorway or any other narrow opening that could entrap or restrict its wheels.

Loading

The control lever on a manual pallet jack can be moved into the up, down and neutral positions. When you’re ready to load the pallet jack, pump the handle down to activate the hydraulic system and raise the forks up to the proper position. Once the forks are positioned correctly, slide them underneath or through openings in the pallet and secure the load. Once you’re finished loading, move the jack to its destination and use the controls to maneuver it to your desired location.

Be careful when driving the jack around, and always watch for obstacles that could get in the way of your path. Also, keep in mind that the jack is much heavier when it’s loaded with product than when empty. For this reason, it’s important that you plan ahead for your trip and walk the route before operating to ensure that there are no bumps or debris blocking the jack.

Wearing appropriate footwear is another important safety measure. Crushed toes and other injuries can occur if you turn the jack around too quickly or step on the prongs when they’re raised up. Always wear sturdy shoes, and if possible, consider steel toed boots. Gloves are also recommended to reduce the risk of cuts, blisters and scraped knuckles.

Every jack has a specific load capacity rating that must not be exceeded. You can find this information on the load plate or on any documents that come with your jack. It’s crucial that your employees check the load rating before each shift and review any other documentation related to that jack. This can help reduce accidents and property damage due to overloading. Also, it’s important that your employees report any issues with the jack to their supervisor immediately to avoid injury or equipment damage.