Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
Each year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents which are related to utilizing forklifts in the United States alone. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that the proper training program is given to the employees and that forklift operators are qualified.. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Operators of forklifts should 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 particular forklift which the worker would be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee should be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
To be able to make certain that the machine is working safely and properly, forklift inspection should be carried out each day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns at once.
The Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is vital in the safe operation of a forklift. A work site which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" which are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as horns and flashing lights should be in place to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift operation comprise ; 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 legs, hands and arms in the vehicle during operation.