Forklift Safety Tips & Guidelines
Within the United States, 20,000 people are hurt each year in accidents connected to the utilization of forklifts. And each and every year roughly 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training regarding operation procedures and maintenance could considerably reduce the risk of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that the correct training program is given to the staff and that operators of forklifts are qualified.. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Forklift operators must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to using the specific forklift which the worker would be using. An employee must be at least 18 years old to use a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done on a daily basis in order to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the machine. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns immediately.
The Work Place
Having a clean and safe workplace is essential in the safe use of a forklift. A work site which is safe means establishing "traffic lanes" that are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for instance flashing lights and horns 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
Included in the general safety rules of using a forklift are ; 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.