Forklift Safety Guidelines and Tips
Each and every year, there are roughly 20,000 cases of accidents that are related to utilizing forklifts in the United States alone. And every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training about maintenance and operation procedures could considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and suggestions must be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the responsibility of the employer to make certain that the correct training program is given to the staff and that operators of forklifts are trained.. 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 utilizing the particular forklift which the employee will be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done daily to be able to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the equipment. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of things and reporting any problems immediately.
The Work Place
Having a clean and safe workplace is essential in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like flashing lights and horns must be in place to be able to indicate when there is a forklift approaching. Forklift docking stations should be kept in good repair and inspected daily.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift use include respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like wet spots or oil spills; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle while using it.