Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
Every year, there are about 20,000 cases of accidents that are connected to using forklifts in the US alone. And each and every year roughly 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure 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 should take place every three years. Forklift operators have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to operating the particular forklift that the worker will be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be carried out on a daily basis in order to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the machine. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is important in the safe operation of a forklift. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for instance horns and flashing lights should be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations must be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift operation consist of ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over the maximum; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle during operation.