Pallet Jack Safety

A pallet jack is a relatively simple device that allows a person to pick up and move a palletized load which can weigh several times that of the operator. A typical manual pallet jack consists of a small frame that supports two low forks that are designed to fit under a pallet. A handle, or tiller, connected to the frame provides a method to push or pull the jack, to steer it, and a way to hydraulically elevate the forks. This course will focus on the principles of operation and instructions for safe use of the manual type of pallet jack.

• Identify the primary components of a manual pallet jack • Describe the operation of a pallet jack • List the PPE needed to safely operate a pallet jack • List actions that should be taken before operating a pallet jack • Describe how to ergonomically move a load • Describe some unsafe behaviors around pallet jacks • Describe how to safely store a pallet jack