Forklift Safety Guidelines and Suggestions
In the United States, 20,000 individuals are injured every year in accidents connected to the utilization of forklifts. And every year around 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could significantly reduce the chance 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 provided to the employees and that operators of forklifts are qualified.. 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 regulations. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers connected to operating the particular forklift which the employee will be using and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make sure 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 immediately.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is essential in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work place means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems such as horns and flashing lights should 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
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over 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; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while utilizing it.