Forklift Safety Guidelines and Suggestions
Every year, there are about 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to utilizing forklifts within the United States alone. And each year roughly 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could significantly reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips should be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that employees are certified to use a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Forklift operators should be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to operating the specific forklift that the employee will be using. An employee should be at least 18 years old to use a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done on a daily basis in order to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the machine. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems immediately.
The Workplace
Safe operation of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work site which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for example flashing lights and horns must be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be inspected on a daily basis and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift use comprise ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over the maximum; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping arms, legs and hands in the vehicle while utilizing it.