Forklift Safety Rules and Suggestions
Within the US, 20,000 individuals are injured each year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The basic safety rules and suggestions below must be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are trained to operate a forklift and have gone through 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 should be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to utilizing the specific forklift which the worker would be using. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be carried out on a daily basis to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the equipment. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Place
Having a clean and safe workplace is important in the safe use of a forklift. 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 a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety rules of using a forklift are respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as oil spills or wet spots; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping arms, legs and hands in the vehicle while using it.