Main risks

• Trapping of hands and feet by the forks, wheels or under the load.
• Tipping or dropping of the load due to overloading, poor placement or uneven floors.
• Collisions with people or obstacles due to poor visibility or sudden manoeuvres.
• Loss of control on slopes, ramps or near edges and loading bays.
• Muscle and back injuries from pulling or pushing with poor posture.
• Slips on wet floors, floor debris or oil leaks.
• Unexpected fork descent due to improper handling or lifting system failure.
• On electric models: battery-related risks (overcharging, damaged leads or inadequate ventilation).

Safe use

• Check the maximum capacity indicated on the equipment and do not exceed it.
• Inspect before use: wheels, forks, control handle, any leaks and, on electric models, the condition of the battery and leads.
• Insert the forks fully under the pallet and centre the load; secure any loose packages if necessary.
• Keep hands and feet away from pivot areas and from the path of the forks.
• Where appropriate, wear safety footwear and grip-enhancing gloves.
• Move at a moderate speed with good visibility; avoid sharp turns with the load raised.
• Travel with the forks lowered and raise only to pick up or set down the load.
• Whenever possible, push rather than pull to reduce effort and improve control.
• Cross thresholds, joints and bumps slowly and in a straight line.
• Use ramps only if suitable for the pallet truck and the load; avoid sudden manoeuvres on slopes.
• At loading bays or on lorries, ensure the vehicle is immobilised and the dock plate is correctly positioned before entering.
• When parking, lower the forks completely and leave the equipment in a stable position; on electric models, switch off or remove the key.

Storage and maintenance

• Park on a level surface, with the forks lowered and without blocking aisles or exits.
• Keep the equipment clean; remove packaging debris and clean up any oil spills immediately.
• Regularly check wheels, axles, forks and controls; if you detect damage, unusual noises or leaks, take the pallet truck out of service.
• Do not use the pallet truck if there are visible deformations or cracks in the forks or chassis.
• Lubricate and adjust the points indicated by the manufacturer without over-applying oils or greases.
• Electric models: charge the battery in a ventilated area, using a compatible charger and leads in good condition; do not cover the charger or the battery while charging.
• Store the equipment in a dry place, protected from the elements and accidental impacts.

Restrictions on use

• For use exclusively by adults trained in basic operation.
• Do not transport people or allow anyone to ride on the forks or the load.
• Do not use on stairs or steep gradients; avoid unstable, very slippery or severely uneven floors.
• Do not use with broken pallets, incompatible sizes or unsecured loose loads.
• Do not modify the equipment or add makeshift accessories.
• Do not use if there is visible damage, leaks or irregular operation; label and take out of service.
• Do not operate near unprotected edges (pits, loading bays) unless barriers or stops are in place.
• In lifts, only if they can support the combined weight of equipment and load; enter and exit with the load centred and at low speed.
• Do not use in explosive-risk or flammable atmospheres unless using equipment specifically designed for this.