Forklift Safety Guidelines and Tips
In the United States, 20,000 individuals are hurt every year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And every year approximately 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Fortunately, proper training regarding operation procedures and maintenance can considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and suggestions should be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the job of the employer to make certain that the proper training program is provided to the employees and that operators of forklifts are certified.. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Operators of forklifts have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to using the specific forklift that the employee will be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be at least 18 years old to use a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done daily to be able to ensure the proper and safe functioning of the equipment. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Work Place
Safe operation of a forklift involves a clean and safe workplace. A work site which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like horns and flashing lights should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety rules of utilizing a forklift are ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never going over the maximum; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; lowering or raising the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms in the vehicle while using it.