A walkie-stacker is different than any other type of equipment you use, particularly the way it handles and its center of gravity. In many ways it works like a forklift, but in some ways it’s totally different in its operation. The walkie stacker model forklift is designed for the person to operate the truck while walking, not riding the equipment. Unlike the rider forklifts, or counter-balanced equipment that are designed for heavier loads. The walkie stackers are designed for less demanding loads and shorter travel distances. Quite often this equipment is called a straddle truck as it straddles the load. Don’t let the names confused you. Walkie stacker, truck, or straddle truck means the same thing. As with any equipment you must be trained to operate the equipment, and you must be authorized by your company before you operate the walkie stacker. The walkie stacker is easy and safe to operate if you follow the rules. If you fail to follow the rules this equipment can be dangerous.

Okay, let’s take a look at the controls of the walkie stacker. First, there’s the key switch. This switch allows the operator to turn the walkie stacker on and off. On the handle you’ll find different buttons, each with different functions. The throttle controls on this model are twist grips. Rolling the grip forward, you move the truck forward. Rolling towards the rear, and the truck moves in reverse. If you’re new to operating this equipment it’s critically that you master these controls or you could be inviting an accident or an injury. The speed of the truck is controlled by the settings for fast or slow movement. There’s a switch that raises the load, and a switch that lowers the load. Obviously you must become very experienced and understand how to use these switches. Pushing the horn button activates the walkie stacker horn, a very important feature. The red button is the safety reversing switch which automatically reverses the direction of the walkie stacker should the handle contact the operator, or a fixture, wall, or other obstruction. It’s a safety feature to keep a person from being crushed against a wall or other object. The handle also acts as the steering mechanism. There is a control that extends the forks. And one that adjusts the tilt of the load. In case of emergency there is a battery disconnect switch. It’s used in the case of an equipment malfunction, or other emergency. By pressing the lever down it disconnects the battery and turns the truck off. Each model walkie stacker truck may be slightly different and the configuration of the controls on your particular piece of equipment may differ slightly, but their function is the same. Know where all your controls are located, and make sure you understand how to use them, and what function each of these controls performs. To ensure your equipment is functioning properly you must perform a daily inspection at the beginning of your shift before you operate the equipment. This inspection should be thorough. Don’t give the walkie stacker a quick once-over. It’s important to provide a thorough inspection. Basically there are two parts to the inspection. First, with the key in the off position, and secondly, with the key on and the battery engaged.