Manual pallet jacks allow you to move ground-level pallet loads from one area to another,without the need for complicated and more costly motorized retrieval equipment. A manual pallet jack features a hydraulic lift mechanism, a lift handle and wheels, connected to a two-pronged fork frame. Improperly operating a manual pallet jack increases the chances of workplace injury or damage to the load or equipment. Using the appropriate procedures to operate a manual pallet jack promotes safety and reduces costs.
Instructions
1. Examine the loaded pallet carefully. Secure any loose items with packing wrap. Rearrange items on the pallet to ensure a balanced load. Do not transfer loaded pallets with broken slats.
2. Reduce the height of the pallet load, if possible, if the items obstruct your view. Place additional items on a separate pallet for later retrieval. Never lift loads that exceed the pallet jack's weight limit.
3. Squeeze the lowering lever on the pallet jack to reduce the fork height, if necessary.
4. Slide the pallet jack between the two corresponding openings, located at the front or rear of the pallet. Ensure the jack slides evenly and completely underneath the pallet.
5. Place the pallet jack lever in the "Lift" position. Pump the handle up and down.
6. Continue pumping the handle until a 1- to 2-inch gap exists between the bottom of the pallet and the floor. Raise the height of the pallet load when transporting it over uneven floor surfaces.
7. Place the handle lever in the "Neutral" or middle position to lock the load height.
8. Pull the load to the desired destination, keeping aware of other workers, equipment and items within the area. Do not push the load by the handle to the destination.
9. Park the pallet when you arrive at the desired drop-off location. Squeeze the lever to lower the pallet to the floor. Do not rest the pallet on an incline or unstable surface.
10. Slide the jack from underneath the pallet to complete the process.
