Rev. 0213 EPT, Manual.doc
Copyright 2013 Vestil Manufacturing Corp. Page 3 of 51
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Failure to read and understand the instructions included in this manual before using or servicing the
pallet truck constitutes misuse of the product.Study the entire manual before you use the truck for the
first time and before each subsequent use.Read the manual to refresh your understanding of the safe use and
maintenance procedures on p. 50-51. If questions remain after you finish reading the manual, contact Vestil for
answers. DO NOT attempt to resolve any problem with the truck unless you are certain that it will be safe to use
afterwards.
To decrease the risk of electrocution:
¾DO NOT contact or operate the pallet truck close to electrified wires or other sources of electricity;
¾Before operating the EPT, always inspect the area where you will use it.
Improper use might result in serious personal injuries to the operator and/or bystanders. To
minimize the possibility of injury, ALL persons who might operate, perform maintenance on, or service the EPT
must read, understand and apply the following instructions:
xDO NOT operate the EPT unless and until you are:
1. Trained to use the machine; AND
2. Certified as a trained operator by your employer in accordance with U.S. OSHA regulations (29 CFR
§1910.178) and any standards incorporated by reference (e.g. ANSI/ITSDF B56.1-2005).
xDO NOT attempt to lift or transport loads that exceed the rated capacity.
xInspect the machine before each use; DO NOT use the EPT unless it is in normal condition. Normal
operating condition exists if the EPT passes the inspection and functions tests described under the heading,
“Inspect the EPT & Perform a Functions Tests” on p. 20.
xDO NOT use the unit until you read and understand the entire owner’s manual. Review the manual before
each use AND before performing maintenance on the device.
xDO NOT use the EPT if the load-supporting elements sustain any structural damage. Structural elements
include, but are not limited to, the forks, carriage, and wheels. If structural damage is present, immediately
tag the unit “Out of Service” and inform maintenance personnel of the problem.
xDO NOT use the EPT if it makes unusual noises during operation.
xDO NOT allow people to ride on the pallet truck. Only the operator of an EPT equipped with a properly
installed rider platform (EPT
xDO NOT attempt to lift an unevenly distributed load. Always center and evenly distribute the load on the forks.
xDO NOT operate the EPT on surfaces (ramps or grades) angled more than 4 degrees.
xDO NOT leave the EPT unattended while it supports a load. Always fully lower the forks, and then completely
disengage the skid or pallet. Complete the parking / storing procedure described in “Storing the EPT” on p.
22.
xDO NOT modify the pallet truck without first receiving written authorization from Vestil. Unauthorized
modifications may make the EPT unsafe to use.
To maximize the service life of the EPT and to prevent damage:
xAlways store the machine in a secure, dry location where it will not interfere with traffic or other activities.
xMaintain the product as suggested in “Maintenance & Inspections” on p. 49-50.
REMOVING THE PALLET TRUCK FROM THE SHIPPING PALLET:
The pallet truck is shipped in ready-to-use condition. However, it must first be removed from the shipping pallet
before it can be used for the first time.
DO NOT attempt to drive the pallet truck off of the pallet; it might tip over and cause bodily injuries
or property damage. To minimize the risk of injury to yourself or other persons, perform the following steps to
remove the machine from the shipping pallet:
1. Remove all packing material.
2. Inform all personnel not participating in the unpacking process to clear the area.
3. Lift the EPT off of the pallet using either a hoist or a forklift with a capacity of at least 2,000 pounds. Always
apply the proper hoisting procedures or forklift operation practices you learned during your training program.
To remove the EPT from the shipping pallet using a hoist:
EPT-2###-45 models: Remove the battery box.
a) Disconnect the power cable from the socket on top of the EPT housing (circled in photo 1 below). Unfasten the
box from the EPT frame by unscrewing the bolt in the center of the flange; the bolt is shown in photograph 2 (next
page).
