Forklift Safety Rules and Suggestions
Every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents that are connected to using forklifts in the US alone. And every year about 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips must be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are trained to utilize a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts should be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers related to using the particular forklift that the worker would be using. An employee should be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be done on a daily basis to be able to guarantee the safe and proper functioning of the machine. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems right away.
The Workplace
Safe operation of a forklift involves a clean and safe workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for instance flashing lights and horns should be in place to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations must 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 going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like oil spills or wet spots; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle during operation.