Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
Every year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents that are related to utilizing forklifts in the US alone. And each year roughly 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and suggestions must be followed when operating a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that workers are certified to use a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to utilizing the particular forklift that the employee would be using. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to use a forklift.
Maintenance
To make certain that the equipment is functioning safely and properly, forklift inspection must be done each day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems right away.
The Workplace
Safe operation of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work site that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be inspected on a daily basis and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift operation comprise respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle during operation.