How to Park a Forklift

Observe your surroundings and be certain you are parking the forklift in an appropriate area. Forklifts cannot be parked in fire lanes where they would interfere with the movement of emergency vehicles or personnel. Parking a forklift in front of an exit is also prohibited. In the event of an emergency, all exits must remain clear of obstacles. The lift truck should also remain clear of pedestrian walkways and should not block stairways. A forklift should never be parked on an incline. If the forklift becomes disabled on an incline the wheels should be chocked to prevent any accidental rolling until repairs can be completed.

Lower any load to the ground when parking the forklift. Make certain the load is completely on the ground and the forks tilted forward before leaving the machine. All controls must be in the neutral position before the operator leaves the operator compartment. The emergency brake should be set and, in most cases, the keys removed to prevent unauthorized use of the machine. Some facilities require the keys to remain in the machine in the event of an emergency and the machine must be moved or used.

The engine of the forklift may be left running when the operator dismounts if the emergency brake is set, the load is completed lowered to the floor, all controls are in the neutral position, the operator will remain within 25 feet of the machine and the machine will remain in the operator's vision at all times. If you cannot meet all of these conditions, the forklift must be turned off.