Forklift Safety Rules and Suggestions
Within the US, 20,000 people are injured every year in accidents related to the utilization of forklifts. And each year roughly 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training about operation procedures and maintenance can considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are certified to utilize a forklift and have gone through a proper training program. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content covers dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers connected to utilizing the specific forklift which the employee would be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee must be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be carried out on a daily basis to ensure the proper and safe functioning of the machine. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns immediately.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is vital in the safe operation of a forklift. A work site that is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are only designated for forklift use. 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 inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift operation include ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle during operation.