Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
In the US, 20,000 people are injured each year in accidents related to the utilization of forklifts. And every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could significantly reduce the chance of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and suggestions should be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are trained to operate a forklift and have undergone a proper training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Forklift operators have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers related to operating the specific forklift which the worker will be using. An employee should be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
To make certain that the equipment is working safely and properly, forklift inspection must be carried out each day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems at once.
The Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is essential in the safe operation of a forklift. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for instance horns and flashing lights 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
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping arms, legs and hands inside the vehicle during operation.