Forklift attachment safety checks

Make sure the attachment is fit for purpose Is the attachment fit for purpose?
Forklift attachments are designed and built to handle specific tasks, eg. bin tippers or rotators are specifically designed to lift and rotate plastic bins used in industries such as agriculture and farming.
Trying to use a forklift attachment for a task it isn't specifically designed for puts operators and fellow employees at serious risk of injury.
An example of using a fit for purpose forklift attachment is if you need to use the forklift to lift up an employee to reach something at height, an appropriate man-up safety cage needs to be installed to safely complete the lift.
Using an improvised solution such as just standing on the forklift's types, pallet or an open box can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
It is imperative that any forklift attachment being purchased or used is fit for purpose and that no exceptions are made for convenience.
Can the attachment be safely attached to the forklift?
To ensure the attachment is installed on the forklift types or carriage correctly, it is important to follow the manufacturer's or supplier's instructions.
When installing the attachment, make sure it is fastened securely before any lifting commences and regularly check the connection throughout a shift as repetitively lifting heavy loads may cause the connection to become loose overtime.
It is also important to check that, when installed, the attachment doesn't interfere with or negatively impact the operation of the forklift mast - including the chains.
When using a hydraulically controlled attachment, before work commences, all hydraulic oil levels and connections from the forklift to the attachment should also be checked as being safe and secure.
Has the operator been trained on how to properly use the attachment?
A forklift attachment can be checked regularly, but most important is that the forklift operator is fully trained in its safe operation.
The addition of an attachment can significantly change a forklift's behaviour during operations, including handling and stability.
A properly qualified and trained operator is able to safely operate the attachment while also being aware of subtle changes in behaviour and respond accordingly in a safe and efficient manner to lower the risk of injury or accidents occurring.