Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Each and every year, there are about 20,000 cases of accidents that are related to utilizing forklifts in the US alone. And each year around 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The basic safety regulations and suggestions below should be followed when operating a forklift.
Training
It is the job of the employer to make certain that the proper training program is given to the staff and that forklift operators are trained.. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Operators of forklifts have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers related to using the particular forklift which the worker would be utilizing and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make sure that the machinery is working safely and properly, forklift inspection should be carried out every day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems at once.
The Work Place
Safe operation of a forklift involves a clean and safe workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for example flashing lights and horns must be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift operation comprise respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like wet spots or oil spills; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while utilizing it.