Forklift Safety Guidelines and Tips
Each and every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to using forklifts in the US alone. And each year around 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training concerning maintenance and operation procedures can considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety regulations and tips below must be followed whenever operating a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that workers are certified to utilize a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers connected to using the specific forklift which the worker would be utilizing. An employee should be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be carried out on a daily basis to be able to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the machinery. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems immediately.
The Workplace
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work site that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns should 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 rules of utilizing a forklift are ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping arms, legs and hands in the vehicle during operation.