Forklift Safety Suggestions & Rules
Each and every year, there are about 20,000 cases of accidents that are connected to utilizing forklifts within the US alone. And each year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training concerning maintenance and operation procedures can significantly reduce the chance of accidents. The following basic safety rules and suggestions must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that employees are trained to use a forklift and have gone through a correct training program. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts should be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to utilizing the specific forklift that the worker would be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to use a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make sure that the equipment 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 Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is essential in the safe operation of a forklift. A safe work place means establishing "traffic lanes" that 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 kept in good repair and inspected daily.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as oil spills or wet spots; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle during operation.