Self dumping hoppers allow your forklift operator to easily transport and dump a variety of materials. However, without the proper training and techniques these hoppers can be dangerous, not only to the forklift operator but to bystanders. Follow these safety tips for efficient and responsible use of your Roura Material Handling self dumping hopper.
Before Use
Before you lift the dumping hopper with your forklift, it’s important to inspect it thoroughly. Excessive wear or damage can cause the latch assembly to not work properly. This can force the hopper to dump when you aren’t prepared. You’ll want to thoroughly check the latch spring, drum, base and entire latch assembly before use.
Preparing the Hopper
Once you are sure the hopper is still intact and ready for operation, make sure the hopper is secure. Keep the latch holder in the locked position until you are ready to dump, and also use a safety chain. Without a chain, the hopper may slide off the forks and drop off your forklift. This could not only cause damage to your material hopper, it could also cause serious injuries or death.
Operating Your Forklift and Hopper
Now that the hopper is safe and secure, you can pick up the hopper. It’s best to keep your forks spread as wide as you can. Tilt the mast in order to keep the hopper stable. Obviously, don’t attempt to lift more than one hopper. Even if your forklift is rated for it, this is an extremely dangerous maneuver that could easily cause one or both of the hoppers to tip.
Once you’re ready to dump your material hopper, unlock the latch holder. While the mast is still tiled back, raise the forks until you reach the necessary position. Double check that the area around the hopper is clear. Release the handle and tile the mast forward gradually until it is fully dumped.
Repeating the Process
After you’ve completely dumped the hopper, simply re-latch it by tilting the mast again and switching the latch holder back into the locked position.
Important Safety Reminders
Like all heavy machinery, you need to watch both you and those around you. Don’t just understand the area but let those around you also understand where you will go. Clear communication, whether through signs, signals or prepared routines can help everyone stay safe when working around self-dumping hoppers. With practice, it’s easy to use this safely and efficiently.
Before you get started, here are some general reminders that can help you stay protected around forklifts and hoppers:
- Don’t climb on the forklift mast
- Never stand under a hopper, forks or a forklift
- Always check the weight limit of your self-dumping hopper to make sure you never overload it
- Ensure the material can easily be dumped. A fully loaded and unlatched hopper can cause your forklift to become unstable
Forklift Safety Reminders
Just like a self-dumping hopper, your forklift is a piece of machinery that requires constant safety when operating. It’s easy to forget some of the most unusual safety steps when frequently operating a forklift, so here are some important reminders.
Only use a forklift in designated areas. Consider sectioning off break rooms and paths for foot traffic that is forklift-free. Use large dome mirrors if you have to frequently navigate blind corners, particularly when using a self-dumping hopper.
Choose the Original Self-Dumping Hopper
Whether you’re researching self-dumping hoppers to purchase or reviewing essential information regarding your hopper, contact Roura Material Handling. We’re proud to be the original manufacturer of self-dumping hoppers. Our technicians are experts at the safe and effective use of these dynamic pieces of equipment, and we’re always happy to help you get the most out of your hopper.