Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
In the United States, 20,000 people are hurt every year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each and every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning maintenance and operation procedures can considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The basic safety rules and suggestions below must be followed whenever operating a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that employees are trained to use a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers related to operating the particular forklift which the worker will be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee must be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make certain that the equipment is working safely and properly, forklift inspection should be carried out each day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns right away.
The Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is important in the safe operation of a forklift. A work place that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like 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 consist of ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; lowering or raising the load only when the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while utilizing it.