Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Each and every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents which are connected to utilizing forklifts in the US alone. And every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training regarding operation procedures and maintenance can considerably lessen the chance of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips should be followed when using a forklift.
Training
It is the duty of the employer to make certain that the proper training program is given to the staff and that operators of forklifts are qualified.. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Forklift operators should be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers related to operating the specific forklift which the worker would be using and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be done on a daily basis to be able to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the machinery. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Work Place
Having a clean and safe workplace is essential in the safe operation of a forklift. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" which are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for instance horns and flashing lights should be in place to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations must be kept in good repair and inspected daily.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift operation comprise respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like oil spills or wet spots; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while using it.