You might think the only thing you have to worry about when you purchase a used forklift is if you should buy used Nissan forklifts, Toyotas, or Clark brand. Much more must go into the whole process for you to operate your equipment safely. Some of these issues concern insurance, licenses, and training. Although these issues need not be complicated or difficult, you need to be aware of the requirements. Here are few general guidelines to get you started. You should check with your local authorities to make sure you are in complete compliance with local laws.
Certification, Training, And More
The law does not require any special training or certification to operate new or used forklifts. This does not mean that your company can't raise the bar and set the standards higher in an effort to maintain a good safety record. There are courses available that will give drivers the needed skills to operate used forklifts in a safe manner. Many companies will require this type of course for a new driver while others make an annual refresher course a mandatory condition for their drivers. Some drivers may require more training than others. Know your employees and don't short change their training. If additional classes are needed, be sure they get them.
Training classes will cover three basic elements of operating used forklifts, including operation of the equipment, safety, and maintenance. Operation of the equipment ensures the driver knows all of the controls and what they allow him to do. Safety teaches the driver how to maneuver the machine safely along with providing additional maintenance tips that lets them know the basic points to check for a longer lifespan of the equipment.
Life Equipment Insurance
There is no requirement for lift equipment to have conventional motor vehicle coverage. This type of insurance would normally cover any injuries or damage that involved the machine. That doesn't mean you don't need any kind of insurance though. Your company should have a general liability policy that would insure you, your driver, and company as a whole from damage resulting from an accident. If you haven't done so already, be sure to talk to your insurance agents and let them know your company operates this type of equipment and ask if your policy is large enough to handle any potential claims. Even if you must increase your coverage, this type of policy is less expensive than a conventional motor vehicle policy.
Licenses
One of the most common questions new owners of new and used forklifts will ask is if each individual driver of the equipment will need some type of driver's license. There is no requirement for drivers to have any type of driver's license unless the machine is going to operate on a public street. If this were the case, the driver would need to have a standard motor vehicle operator's license.
The same holds true for license plates or tags for the machine. As long as the equipment is operated on private grounds while moving and lifting loads, there is no requirement for state involvement. This will cover the vast majority of all lift equipment. However, if you need to operate on public streets, an additional license for the machine may be required.
It doesn't matter if you have used Nissan forklifts, Clark or Toyota units, training, licensing, and insurance issues will all need to be addressed before putting them to work. Operating your machines in a safe and responsible manner will go a long way in helping your company grow and prosper for the long term.
Author Resource:-
Christine O'Kelly is the author for RHI Lifts, a leading provider of used Nissan forklifts. This top Chicago forklifts specialist offers a full line of moving and storage equipment as well as service, maintenance, and training.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.freebie-articles.com/images/rss.gif "XML Feed For RSS")
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites