# Safety Regulations for Diesel Forklifts

Diesel Forklift Safety Operation Regulations (Complete Version) Diesel forklifts are widely used in ports, construction, logistics, and many other fields due to their strong power and long endurance; however, at the same time, their operational risks are relatively high, and all safety regulations must be strictly followed. The following systematically outlines the core safety requirements for diesel forklift operations from key aspects such as pre-operation inspection, work specifications, and emergency handling. I. Pre-Operation Safety Inspection 1. Mandatory Daily Checks Before Startup Fuel system: Confirm there are no leaks and that the fuel tank has sufficient fuel (it is recommended that the remaining fuel level be >=30%). Hydraulic system: Check the hydraulic oil level, confirm there are no leaks in the lines, and that lifting and tilting movements are normal. Tires: Pneumatic tires must meet the required air pressure (refer to nameplate parameters), and solid tires must have no cracks or embedded metal objects. Braking system: The foot brake and hand brake must be responsive, with a braking distance of <=3 m (tested under no-load conditions at 10 km/h). Lights and warning devices: Headlights, turn signals, reverse alarms, and horns must function properly. Seat belt: No damage, buckle secure (mandatory use). 2. Key Weekly Inspections Engine oil: Check the dipstick 10 minutes after shutdown. Coolant level: Must be between MIN and MAX. Lubrication condition of transmission chains and bearings. II. Safety Specifications During Operation 1. General Operating Prohibitions The following behaviors are strictly prohibited: Overloading: Must not exceed the rated load on the nameplate. Traveling with forks raised: The height of the forks from the ground should be <=30 cm. Carrying people: Standing on the forks or pallets is prohibited. One-handed operation or leaving the driver's seat: Not allowed even for brief stops. Use in flammable and explosive environments: Diesel engine exhaust may ignite. 2. Key Handling Safety Points Stacking/unloading: Tilt the mast backward (to prevent cargo from slipping); raise to the target height, then make fine adjustments for alignment and lower slowly. Ramp operations: When going uphill, the forks should face the top of the slope; when going downhill, the forks should face the bottom of the slope. Turning is prohibited. Passing through narrow aisles: Reduce speed to <=5 km/h and observe clearance on both sides (it is recommended to allow >=50 cm). Driving in blind spots: Must sound the horn as a warning; rear radar and cameras are recommended. 3. Special Precautions for Diesel Engines Cold start: Preheating is required in severe cold environments (use glow plugs at >=-10°C; install a fuel heater at <=-10°C). Shutdown: Idle for 3 minutes before shutting down (turbocharged models require sufficient cooling). Refueling: Perform after shutting off the engine; smoking or open flames are prohibited. III. Parking and Maintenance Safety 1. Correct Parking Steps Lower the forks to the ground (parking with them suspended is strictly prohibited). Shift to neutral and apply the handbrake. Turn off the engine and remove the key (shared vehicles require handover registration). Clear surrounding debris (to prevent fire or tripping hazards). 2. Maintenance Safety Regulations Lockout/tagout (LOTO): Disconnect the power supply during maintenance and hang a "Do Not Start" sign. Tire replacement: Use jack stands for support; supporting only by the hydraulic system is prohibited. Waste oil disposal: Collect in dedicated containers; direct discharge is prohibited. IV. Emergency Response Plan 1. Response to Common Accidents Diesel leakage: Shut down the engine immediately, absorb with oil-absorbent pads, report to the supervisor, and isolate ignition sources. Cargo tipping: The operator should grip the steering wheel tightly and must not jump from the vehicle (wearing a seat belt can reduce the risk of serious injury by more than 75%). Engine overheating: Shut down and cool, check whether the radiator is blocked, and do not add cold water directly (this may cause cylinder block cracking). 2. Fire Handling Initial fire: Use a dry powder fire extinguisher (water is prohibited for extinguishing fuel fires). If the fire spreads: Evacuate immediately, call 119, and activate the plant fire emergency plan. V. Training and Supervision Operator qualifications: Must hold a Special Equipment Operator Certificate (forklift certificate Class N1). Refresher training requirements: Participate in at least 8 hours of safety training every 2 years (including practical assessment). On-site supervision: High-risk operations (such as container yards) require a spotter. Appendix: Safety Comparison Between Diesel Forklifts and Electric Forklifts Fire risk: Diesel forklifts are higher (fuel + high-temperature components); electric forklifts are lower (but lithium batteries have thermal runaway risk). Exhaust hazards: Diesel forklifts require prevention of CO poisoning (prohibited indoors); electric forklifts have zero emissions. Noise: Diesel forklifts 75-85 dB (earplugs required); electric forklifts <70 dB. Summary: The core of diesel forklift safety management lies in preventing mechanical failures and standardizing operating behavior. By strictly implementing daily inspections, complying with handling procedures, and strengthening emergency training, more than 90% of accident risks can be reduced. It is recommended that enterprises establish a "human-machine-environment" trinity safety management system and regularly carry out hazard inspections.