Forklift Safety Guidelines and Tips
Each year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents that are connected to utilizing forklifts in the United States alone. And each and every year roughly 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning maintenance and operation procedures can significantly lessen the chance of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below must be followed whenever 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 trained.. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Forklift operators must be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers related to using the particular forklift which the employee would be utilizing. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make certain that the machinery is working properly and safely, forklift inspection should be done each day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Place
Safe operation of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work place means establishing "traffic lanes" which are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems like horns and flashing lights must be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift operation comprise respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like 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 while utilizing it.