The "3-Foot Rule" in forklift operation refers to maintaining at least a 3-foot safety distance while operating a forklift. This rule is crucial for ensuring the safety of operators and other personnel, preventing collisions, and avoiding accidents during movement.

Implementation Standards of the "3-Foot Rule" in Forklift Operation

The specific standards for implementing the "3-Foot Rule" in forklift operation are as follows:

1. Travel Distance: Maintain a travel distance greater than 3 meters between forklifts.
2. Interpersonal Distance: While moving between different areas, keep at least a 3-foot distance from the nearest person.
3. Operation Near Personnel: When personnel are working near pallets, the forklift must wait at least 3 meters away. Once the personnel have completed their work and moved beyond this distance, the forklift can then proceed with operations.

How to Correctly Apply the "3-Foot Rule" in Forklift Operation

To correctly apply the "3-Foot Rule" in forklift operations, follow these steps and precautions:

1. Stay Focused: Operators should focus on the area within a 3-foot radius (about arm's length). This helps maintain control over the immediate environment and prevents accidents.
2. Slow Down and Sound the Horn: At intersections or places with poor visibility, operators must slow down and sound the horn to alert others to the forklift's presence.
3. Maintain Safe Distance: If other personnel are within the safety distance, operators must stop the operation immediately to ensure everyone's safety.
4. Smooth and Steady Movement: During loading and unloading, approach and withdraw from items slowly and steadily. Be careful not to roll over pallets and blocks or damage surrounding facilities.

Special Requirements of the "3-Foot Rule" for Heavy Forklifts

The "3-Foot Rule" has different requirements for various types of forklifts. For heavy-duty counterbalance forklifts, the load capacity is 25,000 pounds with the counterweight retracted. Extending the counterweight by 3 feet increases the load capacity to 35,000 pounds. This shows that heavy forklifts can significantly improve load capacity by adjusting the counterweight while adhering to the "3-Foot Rule."

Effective Supervision and Enforcement 

To effectively supervise and enforce the "3-Foot Rule" in a work environment, consider the following aspects:

1. Clear Safety Operating Procedures: Companies should establish detailed forklift safety procedures. Forklift operators must be certified and strictly adhere to these safety standards. Procedures should cover all operational aspects, including starting, driving, and loading/unloading.
2. Training and Assessment: Operators must pass relevant exams and obtain special equipment operator certificates before independently operating forklifts. Companies should regularly conduct safety training and assessments to ensure operators understand and follow the "3-Foot Rule" and other safety requirements.

3. Protective Gear: Forklift operators must wear their certification, safety helmets, and reflective vests, and comply with supervision department checks. These measures enhance safety awareness and reduce accident risks.
4. On-Site Supervision and Inspection: Companies should assign personnel to supervise the site, ensuring operators strictly follow the "3-Foot Rule." Violations should be promptly corrected and penalized.
5. Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Forklifts should not be mounted or dismounted while in motion or not fully stopped. Companies must regularly inspect and maintain forklifts to ensure they are in good working condition, preventing safety accidents due to equipment failure.
6. Enhanced Communication and Coordination: In the forklift operating area, if there are people or obstacles, operators should communicate to ensure no personnel or obstacles are within 2 meters of the working range. This helps prevent potential safety hazards.