Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Every year, there are approximately 20,000 cases of accidents that are connected to using forklifts in the US alone. And each year around 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training concerning maintenance and operation procedures could considerably lessen the chance of accidents. The basic safety regulations and suggestions below must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are qualified to use a forklift and have gone through a proper training program. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Forklift operators must be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to using the particular forklift which the worker would be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make certain that the equipment is working properly and safely, forklift inspection should be done every day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns at once.
The Work Place
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as horns and flashing lights should be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift operation comprise respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms in the vehicle while utilizing it.