Forklift Safety Guidelines and Suggestions
Within the United States, 20,000 people are hurt each year in accidents related to the utilization of forklifts. And each and every year around 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The basic safety rules and tips below must be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that employees are trained to utilize a forklift and have gone through a proper training program. Training involves a combination of presentations, lectures, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts need to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace lighting and surfaces, and dangers connected to using the particular forklift that the employee would be using. An employee must be at least 18 years old to use a forklift.
Maintenance
In order to make certain that the equipment is functioning safely and properly, forklift inspection must be done each day. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns right away.
The Workplace
Safe use of a forklift involves a safe and clean workplace. A work place which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for instance horns and flashing lights should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. 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 exceeding the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like wet spots or oil spills; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only when the forklift is stationary; and keeping legs, hands and arms in the vehicle while utilizing it.