Singapore SOP 205

PROCEDURE FOR OPERATION OF MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Responsibility
Warehouse Co-ordinator
Warehouse Staff

1.0 Aim

1.1 This operating procedure describes the procedures used for the handling of Material Handling
Equipment.

2.0 References

2.1 Orica Model Procedures for Safe Operations of Forklifts (refer to the Orica Field Guide)
2.2 Pre-operation checklists

3.0 Procedure

3.1 Forklifts Procedure

3.1.1 The Warehouse Coordinator is responsible for ensuring fork-lifts shall be operated by Licensed
operators only. Prior to operating a fork-lift, the operator must have been approved by the
Warehouse Coordinator after a period of supervised operation of that type of fork-lift.
3.1.2 The Warehouse Coordinator is responsible for ensuring pre-operating checklists and guidelines
for safe fork-lift operation are displayed in appropriate locations in the warehouse.
3.1.3 Fork-lifts may only be operated in their designated area of use. Prior to operating any fork-lift
operators must ensure that the appropriate fork-lift is being used for that location.
3.1.4 The operator must complete all checklists for the fork-lift prior to its operation.
3.1.5 Operators who see any defects with any material handling equipment should immediately bring it
to the attention of the Warehouse Coordinator / Site Manager

3.2 Drum Grabs Procedure

3.2.1 Check area is clear before attaching grabs to fork.
3.2.2 Make sure fork tyne's are adjusted to correct width.
3.2.3 Check that fork tyne's are entering correctly.
3.2.4 Once you have entered the Grabs with fork tynes raise approximately 30 cm off the ground to
attach locking devices.
3.2.5 Attach locking chain to the mast of the fork-lift.
3.2.6 When lifting drums, ensure the area is clear of other personnel, make sure the grab is deployed
securely onto the drum lip.
3.2.7 Only lift drums high enough to move with safety.

3.3 Electric Fork-lifts Charging Procedure

3.3.1 Park fork in required position with tyres lowered to ground and apply park brake.
3.3.2 Switch off power to fork.
3.3.3 Clear the area surrounding the fork-lift of any potentially flammable or combustible materials.
3.3.4 If there are instructions for charging located on the fork-lift, ensure that these are followed. Where
there are no instructions the following procedure may be followed.
3.3.3 Disconnect plug from fork to be charged
3.3.4 Make sure power switch to battery charger is off. Then connect plug from fork to battery charger
plug.
3.3.5 Switch power on to battery charger and check that needle indicator is showing that machine is
charging.
3.3.6 If you notice any fault switch all power off and report to the Warehouse Coordinator immediately

3.4 Work Platforms

3.4.1 The use of the platform shall be limited to those situations where it is necessary to elevate
personnel to perform special tasks of short duration.
3.4.2 The operator shall gain assurance from a responsible person that the industrial truck and
combination of attachments which are used to support the platform comply with AS 2359.1.
3.4.3 The operating checks of the industrial truck are carried out immediately prior to the lifting and
support of any personnel.
3.4.4 The industrial truck shall be used on a hard level surface.
3.4.5 While lifting in an area subject to passing traffic, barriers or warning signs shall be used to
prevent any interference.
3.4.6 Any stabilisers shall be engaged prior to lifting.
3.4.7 The travel controls shall be in neutral with the park brake engaged.
3.4.8 The mast, if adjustable shall be set vertical.
3.4.9 The forks shall be horizontal.
3.4.10 The controls other than the lifting and lowering controls shall be immobilised..
3.4.11 The operator and every person to be elevated shall check the platform is securely attached.
3.4.12 The operator shall stay with the industrial truck controls at all times.
3.4.13 The operator shall keep hands and feet clear of controls other than those controls in use.
3.4.14 The operator shall keep clear of overhead obstructions and in particular CLEAR OF
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS.
3.4.15 Before any person is elevated or supported by the platform, the operators shall lift the platform to
the required work height to confirm that all systems are functioning correctly.
3.4.16 The operator shall lift and lower the platform in a smooth manner.
3.4.17 Elevated personnel shall stand on the floor of the platform at all times they are elevated.
3.4.18 Ladders or other means shall not be used to gain extra height.
3.4.19 Whenever a person is supported by the platform, any manoeuvring of the industrial truck shall be
minimised
3.4.20 Safety Harness must be worn by the personnel inside the work platform before the personnel is
elevated.