Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
Each year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents that are related to using forklifts in the United States alone. And each and every year about 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training about operation procedures and maintenance could considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips must be followed when using a forklift.
Training
It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that the proper training program is given to the staff and that operators of forklifts are certified.. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Forklift operators should be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers 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 operate a forklift.
Maintenance
To make sure that the equipment is working properly and safely, forklift inspection must be carried out each day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Work Place
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work site that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns should be in place to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift use comprise respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while using it.