Forklift Safety Tips & Rules
In the United States, 20,000 individuals are injured each year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, correct training concerning maintenance and operation procedures could considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety rules and suggestions below should be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are certified to operate a forklift and have undergone a correct training program. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Forklift operators need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers connected to utilizing the specific forklift that the employee would be utilizing and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be done on a daily basis in order to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the equipment. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is essential in the safe operation of a forklift. A work place that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for instance flashing lights and horns should be in place to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift use comprise respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle while utilizing it.