Sadly, industrial accidents and injuries at construction sites are very common and occur more often than anybody would like. According to statistics, a huge majority of these incidents occur because of not enough or wholly absent safety training and protocols. A machinery such as a lift truck can be a really dangerous kind of machinery if incorrectly used.
With nearly all types of equipment, correct maintenance is the initial step towards maintenance. You have to make sure that the machine is working at an optimum level before attempting to utilize it and you should never attempt to use anything that doesn't seem to be functioning correctly. Safety first!
There are several important safety tips which are pertinent to construction and warehouse equipment in general. To start with, the tines, shovels or other lifting parts must never ever be used to transport individuals. This particular equipment is not an elevator or a moving work station. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial machine which needs to be always respected.
Before raising any load, it is important to make sure that the load is correctly balanced and settled on your forks. Any poorly or unwieldy centered object stands a good chance of falling off the tines and could injure co-worker or passers-by. Also, whatever is being transported can end up damaged easily.
Never stand in between a load and a truck, wall or other surface. The operator of the forklift might not be able to see exactly where you are from their position and could accidentally end up crushing your arm in between things if you are not paying attention. It is never a wise idea to be hanging around machines which is being used.
Know and follow the load limits of a particular machinery's load bearing characteristics. Extreme damage and injury can happen if you attempt to lift anything which is too large or too heavy. Also, take note of the height and the speed of your load while you are moving it to make certain you are within the proper safety parameters.
Utilizing a forklift in a safe manner can really reduce your chance of accidents in the workplace. Injuries and product damage could be avoided easily so long as everyone takes the time to ensure they are following all the manufacturer's safety guidelines set out for that particular model.