Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to utilizing forklifts within the US alone. And every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips should be followed when operating a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that employees are certified to utilize a forklift and have undergone a correct training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Forklift operators need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers connected to utilizing the specific forklift which the employee would be using. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to use a forklift.
Maintenance
To make sure that the equipment is functioning properly and safely, forklift inspection must be done each day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns immediately.
The Workplace
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for example flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be inspected on a daily basis and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety guidelines of utilizing a forklift are ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping arms, legs and hands inside the vehicle while using it.