Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
Each and every year, there are about 20,000 cases of accidents which are connected to utilizing forklifts within the United States alone. And each and every year approximately 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training about maintenance and operation procedures can considerably lessen the chance of accidents. The basic safety regulations and suggestions below should be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the duty of the employer to make certain that the proper training program is provided to the staff and that forklift operators are trained.. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers connected to utilizing the particular forklift which the employee will be utilizing. An employee must be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make sure that the machine is working properly and safely, forklift inspection should be done every day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of items and reporting any concerns at once.
The Workplace
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for example horns and flashing lights must 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 using a forklift are respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, such as wet spots or oil spills; lowering or raising the load only when the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs in the vehicle during operation.