Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to utilizing forklifts in the US alone. And every year approximately 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the job of the employer to make sure that the proper training program is given to the staff and that forklift operators are qualified.. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to using the particular forklift that the employee would be using. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make certain that the machinery is working safely and properly, forklift inspection should be carried out every day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Site
Having a safe and clean workplace is important in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety rules of using a forklift are ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle while using it.