Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
Every year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents which are connected to utilizing forklifts in the United States alone. And each and every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training about maintenance and operation procedures can significantly lessen the chance of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips should be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are certified to operate 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 should be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers related to utilizing the specific forklift that the employee will be utilizing. An employee must be at least 18 years old to use a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be done on a daily basis to ensure the proper and safe functioning of the equipment. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is vital in the safe operation of a forklift. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for example horns and flashing lights must be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety guidelines of utilizing a forklift are ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping arms, legs and hands in the vehicle during operation.