Forklift Safety Rules and Suggestions
Within the United States, 20,000 individuals are injured every year in accidents related to the utilization of forklifts. And each year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training concerning operation procedures and maintenance could considerably lessen the chance of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below should be followed when operating a forklift.
Training
It is the duty of the employer to make certain that the proper training program is provided to the employees and that operators of forklifts are qualified.. Training includes a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Operators of forklifts need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to using the particular forklift that the employee would be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee must be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make certain that the equipment is working properly and safely, forklift inspection should be done each day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns right away.
The Workplace
Safe operation of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns should be in place to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations should be inspected on a daily basis and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift operation include avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping arms, legs and hands inside the vehicle during operation.