Forklift Safety Suggestions & Rules
In the United States, 20,000 individuals are injured each year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training regarding operation procedures and maintenance could significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips should be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are trained to use a forklift and have undergone a proper training program. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Operators of forklifts need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers connected to operating the specific forklift that the employee will be utilizing. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be carried out daily to be able to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the equipment. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems 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 instance horns and flashing lights should be in place 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
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like wet spots or oil spills; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while using it.