While self-dumping hoppers allow forklift operators to easily transport and handle a variety of materials, they can be dangerous without the proper training and techniques.
If you’ve never used a self-dumping hopper before, follow these safety tips for efficient and responsible use:
Before Use
✔️ Always inspect the latch spring, drum, base, and entire latch assembly before using the hopper. Excessive wear or damage can cause the latch assembly to not work properly, resulting in accidental dumping.
✔️ Ensure the hopper is secure by keeping the latch holder in the locked position until you are ready to dump. You can watch this video to learn more about how our handles work.
✔️ Verify that the mast secure chain (MSC) is attached to the mast of the forklift before dumping the hopper. Without a safety chain like the MSC, the hopper may slide off the forks and drop off your forklift, causing damage to your hopper, serious injuries, and even death.
During Use
✔️ Always keep your forks spread as wide as possible.
✔️ Tilt the mast to keep the hopper stable.
✔️ Before transporting the hopper via forklift, make sure the latch holder is in the ‘closed’ position.
✔️ While the mast is tilted, raise the forks until you reach the necessary position.
✔️ Always double check that the area around the hopper is clear before dumping.
✔️ Unlock the latch holder as soon as you’re ready to dump the hopper. Release the handle and tilt the mast forward gradually until all contents in the hopper have been dumped.
✔️ Re-latch your hopper after use by tilting the mast again and switching the latch holder back into the locked position.
❌ Never attempt to lift more than one hopper. Even if your forklift is rated for it, it’s an extremely dangerous maneuver that could easily cause one or both of the hoppers to tip.
You can watch this video for more information/a step-by-step on using a self-dumping hopper.
General Safety Tips
✔️ Have a communication strategy in your workplace or worksite when using a hopper, whether through signs, signals, or prepared routines.
❌ Never climb on the forklift mast.
❌ Never stand under a hopper or a forklift.
❌ Never overload your hopper; always check the weight limit.
✔️ Ensure the material can be easily dumped, otherwise the forklift may become unstable.
✔️ Only use a forklift in designed areas, and consider sectioning off forklift-free areas for foot traffic.
✔️ Use large dome mirrors if you have to frequently navigate blind corners.
Have Questions? Contact Roura Material Handling
Roura Material Handling is committed to workplace safety. Please visit our website for more safety resources, including instructional videos, or contact us today to speak with one of our product specialists.