Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
In the US, 20,000 people are hurt every year in accidents connected to the utilization of forklifts. And each year around 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training regarding operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below should be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are qualified to operate a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must take place 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, dangers related to operating the specific forklift that the employee would be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee must be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make sure that the machine is working safely and properly, forklift inspection must be done every day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Site
Safe operation of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns must be in place to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations should be inspected on a daily basis and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety rules of utilizing a forklift are ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms in the vehicle during operation.