Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Every year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents that are related to utilizing forklifts in the United States alone. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance can significantly lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety regulations and suggestions below must be followed when using a forklift.
Training
It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that the proper training program is provided to the employees and that operators of forklifts are qualified.. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Forklift operators have to 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 particular forklift that the worker will be utilizing. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to use a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make certain that the equipment is working properly and safely, forklift inspection must be carried out every day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Place
Having a safe and clean workplace is important in the safe use of a forklift. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as horns and flashing lights must 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 consist of ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; 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 using it.