Forklift Safety Tips & Rules
Every year, there are around 20,000 cases of accidents which are connected to utilizing forklifts within the United States alone. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training regarding operation procedures and maintenance can significantly lessen the chance of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips must be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making sure that workers are trained to operate a forklift and have undergone a proper training program. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Forklift operators need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers connected to utilizing the particular forklift that the worker would be using and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to use a forklift.
Maintenance
To make certain that the machinery is working properly and safely, forklift inspection should be done every day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns right away.
The Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is vital 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 flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations should be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle during operation.